Top NHL Players to Watch This Season

Connor McDavid

It’s no surprise that Connor McDavid tops the list. Last season, he put up an unbelievable 132 points (45 goals, 87 assists) in just 76 games, leading the league in scoring for the fifth time in his career. His combination of speed and vision makes him almost impossible to defend. This year, the question isn’t whether McDavid will dominate, it’s whether he can lead the Oilers to that long-awaited Stanley Cup Final. With Leon Draisaitl alongside him, McDavid could be in for another MVP-caliber year.

Cale Makar

When Cale Makar is on the ice, the game just looks different. Despite missing time with injuries last season, he still finished with 64 points in 65 games and averaged over 25 minutes of ice time per night. He’s dynamic, fast, and constantly involved in both ends of the play. With a full offseason to recover, Makar is poised to return to Norris Trophy form. If the Avalanche want to make another Cup push, Makar’s two-way dominance will be at the center of it.

Jack Hughes

Jack Hughes broke out in a big way last season, putting up 99 points (43 goals, 56 assists) and setting multiple franchise records in the process. His creativity with the puck and ability to change pace keep defenders guessing every shift. At just 23 years old, he’s already become the face of a young, hungry Devils team that’s built for speed. If New Jersey keeps trending upward, Hughes could easily join the

league’s elite alongside players like McDavid and MacKinnon.

A hockey puck resting on the ice during a game