Connor McDavid: A Strong Contender for NHL History’s Greatest Player

For more than a decade, fans have watched Edmonton Oilers’ star Connor McDavid and many consider him the finest hockey player they have ever seen, drawing comparisons to legends such as Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier.

Bob Stauffer, host of Oilers Now on 880 CHED, describes McDavid as “the most advanced player the game has ever known.” Alan Mitchell, host of the Lowdown with Lowetide on Sports 1440, notes that McDavid is closing in on a historic milestone as he approaches 1,300 career points.

McDavid Ranks in the Top Three of All‑Time Points‑Per‑Game Percentage

In his August 18 broadcast, Mitchell highlighted that Gretzky tops the NHL with a points‑per‑game average of 1.921, followed by Mario Lemieux at 1.883. McDavid currently sits in third place with a 1.537 average, a feat Mitchell argued deserves greater recognition given the differences between his era and those of Gretzky and Lemieux.

He added that McDavid is often eclipsed by the career totals of Washington Capitals star Alexander Ovechkin, who is nearing 950 goals, and Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby, who could soon join the top five in career assists and points.

McDavid Advances Up the All‑Time Points Standings

McDavid ranks 47th in NHL history with 1,220 points and requires just 80 more to tie Jarome Iginla for 39th place—an achievement Iginla dominated during his tenure with the Calgary Flames. McDavid already surpasses the career points of all‑time greats such as Maurice Richard (966), Bobby Hull (1,170), and Jean Beliveau (1,219).

Does McDavid Require a Stanley Cup to Earn the Title of Best Ever?

The debate is perennial. Many analysts, including McDavid himself, contend that a Stanley Cup is essential for consideration as the greatest player ofinol. Gretzky’s four Cups with the Oilers, Lemieux’s two with the Penguins, and Crosby’s three rings illustrate that legacy often intertwines with championships.

When evaluating overall skill, McDavid stands out as the most complete player the NHL has produced, slightly surpassing Lemieux in certain facets. While Gretzky’s creativity remains unmatched, McDavid’s speed in skating and stickhandling is unparalleled.

Who Will Define the NHL’s Best‑Ever Player?

The conversation over hockey’s greatest player is boundless. Fans recalling Maurice “The Rocket” Richard, Gordie Howe, Bobby Orr, Guy Lafleur, or Howie Morenz each bring compelling arguments to the table.

Should McDavid secure a Stanley Cup with the Oilers—or with another team, following Ray Bourque’s championship success with the Colorado Avalanche—his candidacy for the greatest of all time would receive substantial endorsement, though debate is likely to persist.

Share your perspective on who represents the pinnacle of hockey talent. We welcome thoughtful, respectful commentary.

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