The Hockey 100: Ranking the Legends of the NHL
The Athletic’s new book, The Hockey 100, presents a comprehensive ranking of the greatest NHL players since the league’s modern era began in 1967. Compiled by a panel of experts, the list aims to spark debate among fans about who belongs where.
At the top of the list sits Wayne Gretzky, whose record‑breaking career has long cemented his status as the sport’s all‑time great. Close behind are legends such as Mario Lemieux, Bobby Orr and Sidney Crosby, each of whom left an indelible mark on the game.
The methodology combined statistical output, advanced analytics and the lived experiences of the panelists. While the cutoff year of 1967 limits consideration to players whose careers began before that point, active stars like Connor McDavid earned spots based on their current achievements rather than future promise.
The process forced difficult choices, especially when deciding whether to include Hall of Famers whose careers stretched beyond the cutoff or to prioritize recent excellence. Names such as Eric Duhatschek, Evgeni Malkin, Cale Makar, Macklin Celebrini, Stan Mikita, Johnny Bucyk, Gordie Howe, Bobby Hull, Chris Pronger, Gilbert Perreault, Sean Gentille, Matthew Fairburn, Kevin Kurz, Joe Thornton, Dale Hawerchuk, Andrei Vasilevskiy and Guy Lafleur all found themselves on the final list, illustrating the breadth of talent examined.
The Athletic, published in partnership with William Morrow and the Hockey Hall of Fame, hopes the ranking will become a conversation starter at rinks, bars and living rooms across Canada, the United States and Europe. By laying out the debate in print, the book invites fans to argue, celebrate and perhaps even rewrite the narrative of who truly shaped the sport.
A List That Will Divide and Unite
Whether one agrees with the final ordering or not, the rankings succeed in highlighting the depth of talent that has defined the NHL over the past six decades. The discussion will continue, but the list stands as a snapshot of a generation that continues to inspire new players and fans alike.