30 Of The Greatest NHL Players of All Time

On November 26, 1917, the National Hockey League was established. Countless players have left lasting impressions on the game over the course of the league’s 100-year history. In hockey circles, names like Beliveau, Orr, Gretzky, and Lemieux are held in high regard. If you asked various generations who the top NHL players were, you’d get a variety of answers.
Comparing, contrasting, and listing the greats over decades is a near-impossible task. Some fans feel it is Orr because of his puck-rushing defensive technique, which changed the sport. Others claim it’s Gretzky, who dominated like no one else. Orr and Gretzky have both stated that they believe it is Howe due to his all-around ability.

30. Glenn Hall, Goaltender

For much of the 1960s, the Blackhawks were perennial underachievers, but do not blame their goaltender. They would have been 0 for the decade if it hadn’t been for Glenn Hall’s Smythe Trophy-winning effort in the 1961 Stanley Cup Final.

He earned the award eight years later with an overmatched Blues team that ended up being swept in the series.

29. Bernie Parent, Goaltender

Bernie Parent was the 1974 Stanley Cup’s MVP after defeating the Boston Bruins. Without Bernie, the Flyers would have no Stanley Cup banners.

He was one of just three players (and the only goaltender) to win the Conn Smythe Award two years in a row. “Being insane isn’t required to be a goaltender, but it helps.” Bernie was quoted saying.

28. Stan Mikita, Center

In 1965, Chicago Blackhawks center Stan Mikita beat New York Rangers goalie Eddie Giacomin.

In just two years, the four-time league points leader went from hatchet man to Lady Byng Trophy winner, one of the most extraordinary transformations in hockey history. The deft pivot co-invented the curved stick blade with colleague Bobby Hull. Stan Mikita participated in 22 NHL seasons.

27. Mike Bossy, Right Wing

Mike Bossy was only a rookie when he went out and scored 53 points in his first season. Boss’ only skill was scoring goals and winning Stanley Cups. In fact, no player in league history has scored more goals (0.76 per game).

Only a back injury that cut his career short keeps him from getting a higher score here.