In the ever-evolving landscape of the National Hockey League (NHL), each season brings a fresh influx of elite talent, continuing to elevate the level of competition on the ice. The last season was no exception, marked by standout performances from some of the league's brightest stars.
Exceptional Achievements
Connor McDavid and Nikita Kucherov each achieved a rare milestone, recording 100 assists last season, a testament to their playmaking prowess. Meanwhile, Auston Matthews set the ice ablaze, scoring an astounding 69 goals, contributing to his career total of 368 goals amassed over eight seasons. This feat places him solidly among the goal-scoring elite of the NHL.
Hart Trophy Milestones
Nathan MacKinnon had a season to remember, accumulating 140 points and securing his first Hart Trophy, which is awarded to the league’s most valuable player. His dominance was particularly evident in five-on-five situations, where he led the league with 79 points. This performance underscores his significant impact on the ice.
Quinn Hughes also had an impressive season with 17 goals and 75 assists. The Canucks benefited greatly from his presence, recording a plus-37 goal differential at five-on-five when Hughes was on the ice.
For the Colorado Avalanche, Cale Makar set new career highs with 69 assists and 90 points. The team controlled 52.7% of the expected goals while Makar was on the rink, highlighting his crucial role in their gameplay.
Kucherov and Draisaitl Shine
Nikita Kucherov capped his season with 44 goals and 144 points, ranking third in five-on-five points with 67. His all-around game continues to be a major asset for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Leon Draisaitl also posted impressive numbers, with 272 goals and 371 assists over the past six years. He has become a formidable power play threat, notching 77 power play goals since the 2021-22 campaign.
Barkov, Kaprizov, and Bruins Contributions
Aleksander Barkov demonstrated his two-way capability by scoring 23 goals and 57 assists last season. The Panthers benefited from his defensive acumen, with a 1.98 expected goals against per 60 minutes (xGA/60) while he was on the ice at five-on-five.
Kirill Kaprizov tied for fifth in goals over the past three seasons with 133 and ranked 12th in points with 279. His defensive play has also been noteworthy, as Minnesota allowed just 2.23 xGA/60 with him on the ice in five-on-five situations.
In Boston, the Bruins saw key performances from David Pastrnak, who recorded 47 goals and 63 assists. The team’s goal-scoring rate at five-on-five was significantly higher with Pastrnak on the ice (3.59 GF/60) compared to without him (2.25 GF/60), showing his critical influence in their offensive game.
McDavid's Unrivaled Dominance
Connor McDavid continues to set the benchmark in the NHL. Over the last three seasons, he leads the league in assists (268), points (408), and power play points (159). His playoff performances have also been stellar, with 37 goals and 80 assists in 74 career postseason games. Last season, the Oilers generated an impressive 3.95 expected goals for per 60 minutes (xGF/60) with McDavid on the ice at five-on-five, underscoring his relentless drive and contribution to the team's offensive success.
As the NHL continues to evolve, these players' contributions highlight the league's rich talent pool and the thrilling spectacle it offers to fans worldwide. The season's records and milestones are a reminder of the extraordinary skills that define the game, promising even more excitement in the seasons to come.