Connor McDavid continues his reign as the NHL’s premier player, securing the No. 1 spot in ESPN’s annual player rankings for the 2025-26 season. The list, compiled by a panel of experts and published on October 14, 2025, highlights the elite talent expected to dominate the league in the upcoming campaign, including the return of NHL players to the Olympic Games.
The rankings were determined by a panel of ESPN broadcasters, analysts, reporters, and editors, who evaluated players based on their projected impact for the 2025-26 season, with emphasis on current value and health status. This forward-looking approach explains why injured players like Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov are absent, while others with recent setbacks are ranked lower. The methodology ensures the list reflects who will be the most valuable contributors in the coming months, rather than past achievements alone.
McDavid, the Edmonton Oilers captain, is described as the best player of his generation and a potential all-time great, having led his team to consecutive Stanley Cup Finals. He is followed by Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar at No. 2, praised for his all-around game and Norris Trophy credentials, and Nathan MacKinnon at No. 3, whose blend of speed, power, and skill makes him a constant threat. Leon Draisaitl of the Oilers rounds out the top four, solidifying his status as an elite scorer independent of his teammate.
The list also underscores the importance of team depth, with the defending champion Florida Panthers placing six players in the top 100, including Sam Reinhart at No. 13, who will need to step up in Barkov’s absence. The Dallas Stars lead all teams with seven representatives, such as Mikko Rantanen at No. 10 and Jason Robertson at No. 19, highlighting their offensive firepower. This distribution illustrates how balanced rosters are crucial for Stanley Cup contention, as seen with the Panthers’ repeat success.
Notable goaltenders feature prominently, with Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets at No. 6 after winning the Hart Trophy as league MVP in 2025. Other top netminders include Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Lightning at No. 12 and Igor Shesterkin of the Rangers at No. 14, each recognized for their consistency and game-changing abilities. Veteran stars like Sidney Crosby of the Penguins at No. 21 and Alex Ovechkin of the Capitals at No. 29 continue to defy age, contributing at high levels and setting examples for younger players.
Younger players and prospects make their mark, with Connor Bedard of the Blackhawks at No. 57 and Macklin Celebrini of the Sharks debuting at No. 51. Rising defensemen like Brock Faber of the Wild at No. 49 and Quinn Hughes of the Canucks at No. 7 emphasize the evolving role of blueliners in modern hockey, where offensive contributions are increasingly valued. These rankings set expectations for breakout performances and identify future stars who could shape the league for years to come.
As the NHL season progresses, these rankings will be tested on the ice, with players aiming to validate their positions and teams jockeying for playoff spots. The inclusion of Olympic aspirations adds another layer, as many top-ranked athletes are expected to represent their countries in the 2026 Winter Games. This comprehensive assessment serves as a benchmark for performance expectations, award races, and team strategies, capturing the dynamic landscape of the league heading into a pivotal year filled with both domestic and international competition.