Hockey fans, gather around! It`s time to start the debates.
The NHL Players` Association released its yearly player poll on Tuesday, offering an insider`s perspective on opinions within the league.
For the 10th annual survey, players from all 32 teams answered 12 questions about hockey. This year, 663 NHLPA members participated, sharing their thoughts on various topics, including the best playmaker, desired PWHL rule changes for the NHL, and even the player with the best fashion sense.
The 2024-25 player poll also featured a fan-submitted question for the first time: Who is the smartest player overall?
Here are the top vote-getters in each category:
Who is the best overall goalie?
Andrei Vasilevskiy, Tampa Bay Lightning (31.1 per cent of votes)
Who is the best overall forward?
Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers (73.9%)
Who is the best overall defenceman?
Cale Makar, Colorado Avalanche (71.8%)
Who is the most complete player?
Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins (33.8%)
Who is the best playmaker?
Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning (48.25%)
If you need to win a faceoff, who would you pick?
Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins (20.4%)
Who is the smartest overall player?
Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins (27.0%)
Who is the best overall skater?
Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers (66.4%)
Which player has the best fashion sense?
David Pastrnak, Boston Bruins (15.8%)
Who would be a good broadcaster once they retire?
Kevin Hayes, Pittsburgh Penguins (4.9%)
Which PWHL rulebook change would you like to see in the NHL?
Jailbreak goal (29.7%)
(A Minor penalty ends if the shorthanded team scores)
Which NHL arena has the best ice?
Bell Centre, Montreal Canadiens (45.0%)
