Every hockey generation produces a handful of talents who redefine how the game is played. Yet in the current era, one name consistently rises above the rest — Connor McDavid. His speed, vision, and precision passing have not only reshaped modern NHL hockey but also sparked constant comparisons with legends of the past. Whether it’s his record-breaking point totals or the way he dominates every shift, McDavid continues to set the benchmark for what “elite” truly means in professional hockey.
Connor McDavid – NHL’s Best Player
Few players in NHL history have combined raw pace and tactical intelligence quite like Connor McDavid. His ability to accelerate instantly, read the ice, and deliver passes at full speed makes him almost impossible to contain.
Season 2024-25 Statistics
As of the 2024-25 season, McDavid maintains a staggering 1.49 points per game, once again leading the league in production. His assist numbers remain unmatched — 74 assists in his first 50 games this season alone. With five Art Ross Trophies already secured in his career, McDavid continues to dominate offensively in a way not seen since the peak of players like Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux.
In multiple seasons, McDavid has surpassed 150 points, cementing his reputation as an offensive powerhouse. His playoff performances have also evolved, showing greater consistency and leadership under pressure — a vital factor when assessing the “best in the world” debate.
What Makes McDavid Stand Out
Every elite forward has their strengths, but McDavid’s toolkit goes far beyond raw talent. His control, pace, and anticipation give him an edge that even seasoned defenders struggle to contain.
1. Skating Speed: McDavid’s top speed exceeds 40 km/h on ice, allowing him to separate from defenders within seconds.
2. Game Vision: His spatial awareness enables pinpoint passes that open up scoring chances others wouldn’t even attempt.
3. Playmaking Ability: His chemistry with linemates like Leon Draisaitl has turned Edmonton into one of the most dangerous attacking teams in the NHL.
This unique mix of athleticism and intelligence makes McDavid more than a prolific scorer — he’s a game-changer every time he touches the puck.
McDavid vs. Hockey Legends
McDavid’s numbers already draw comparisons with hockey’s greatest names. Statistically, he’s on pace to join — and possibly surpass — the icons of previous eras.
| Player | Era | Average Points per Game | Career Highlights |
| Wayne Gretzky | 1980s-1990s | 1.92 | 4 Stanley Cups, 10 Art Ross Trophies |
| Mario Lemieux | 1980s-2000s | 1.88 | 2 Stanley Cups, 6 Art Ross Trophies |
| Connor McDavid | 2010s-Present | 1.49 | 5 Art Ross Trophies, 2 Hart Memorials |
| Sidney Crosby | 2000s-Present | 1.28 | 3 Stanley Cups, 2 Hart Memorials |
While McDavid’s career is still developing, his consistency and impact already place him among the sport’s elite.
Other Elite NHL Players
Several other NHL stars continue to push McDavid and raise the standard of modern hockey, each bringing unique strengths to the game.
Auston Matthews
Auston Matthews remains the league’s most clinical finisher. The Toronto Maple Leafs centre already boasts multiple 60-goal calibre seasons, combining a lightning release with remarkable accuracy around 17%. His balance and power make him one of the toughest players to defend in the offensive zone. By 2024-25, Matthews surpassed 340 career goals and 550 points, proving his status as one of the game’s most dangerous forwards.
Nathan MacKinnon
Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche blends raw strength with explosive acceleration — reaching speeds around 37 km/h on the ice. Averaging over 1.25 points per game and surpassing 800 career points, he led Colorado to the Stanley Cup in 2022. His ability to dominate both physically and technically makes him one of the league’s most complete forwards.
Cale Makar
Few defenders have transformed offensive play like Cale Makar. With elite skating, tight edgework, and crisp passing, he has produced 80+ point seasons — exceptional for a blueliner. Winner of the 2022 Norris Trophy and Conn Smythe Trophy, Makar’s mobility and shot accuracy make him a cornerstone of Colorado’s system.
Best British and EIHL Players
British ice hockey continues to progress, with several players excelling abroad while domestic talent in the EIHL keeps improving year on year.
Liam Kirk – Britain’s Leading Professional Talent
Liam Kirk remains the standout name in British hockey. Drafted by the Arizona Coyotes in 2018, he became the first English-born and trained player ever selected in the NHL Entry Draft. After strong performances in the AHL with Tucson Roadrunners and international duty for Team GB, Kirk has built a respected professional career across Europe. His smart positioning and quick release continue to inspire the next generation of British players.
EIHL 2024-25 Season – Top Performers and Rising Stars
The Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) maintains a healthy balance between imported veterans and homegrown players. Standout scorers such as Scott Conway (Belfast Giants) and Patrick Watling (Sheffield Steelers) headline the leaderboard with 70+ points. British veterans Robert Dowd and Ben Lake also continue to influence games with consistency and leadership. The league’s growing competitiveness reflects the ongoing rise of UK hockey.
Individual Awards and Recognition
Each NHL season brings intense competition for individual awards, celebrating players who define excellence at every position.
Major NHL Awards Explained
The NHL recognises individual excellence through a series of prestigious awards that highlight the league’s most outstanding players each season.
– Hart Memorial Trophy: Awarded to the league’s most valuable player, voted by the Professional Hockey Writers’ Association.
– Art Ross Trophy: Given to the regular-season points leader.
– Vezina Trophy: Awarded to the top goaltender, chosen by the league’s general managers.
Historic winners like Wayne Gretzky, Martin Brodeur, and Sidney Crosby have all solidified their legacies through these honours.
NHL Awards and Betting Markets
Before each NHL season, major bookmakers in the UK and North America release odds for these individual trophies. Betting markets often highlight clear favourites, with Connor McDavid typically priced between 3.00 and 4.00 to win the Hart Trophy.
These futures bets attract strong interest among fans who enjoy following long-term performance trends. Markets for the Art Ross and Vezina trophies are also popular, giving bettors the chance to back top scorers or standout goaltenders months before the final results are known.
This growing link between performance analytics and betting odds has made individual NHL awards one of the most followed aspects of the professional hockey season.