The National Hockey League (NHL) continues to captivate fans with an influx of elite talent that raises the bar each season. The 2022-2023 season was no exception, highlighted by remarkable achievements and standout performances from some of the league's brightest stars.
Elite Performances on Display
Connor McDavid and Nikita Kucherov both reached an impressive milestone by recording 100 assists each. McDavid’s consistency and ability to orchestrate plays have been nothing short of phenomenal, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest playmakers in the game. His prowess is further validated by his leading numbers over the last three seasons, where he accumulated 268 assists, 408 points, and 159 power play points. McDavid’s influence extends into the playoffs, with 37 goals and 80 assists in 74 career playoff games. The Edmonton Oilers thrived when he was on the ice, generating 3.95 expected goals for per 60 minutes (xGF/60) at five-on-five last season.
Kucherov also showcased his scoring touch with 44 goals and a total of 144 points. His contribution at five-on-five was significant, with 67 points in that scenario ranking him third in the NHL. Such statistics demonstrate his well-rounded talent and importance to the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Goal-Scoring Machines
Not to be outdone, Auston Matthews tallied an astonishing 69 goals last season, one of the highest tallies in recent history. Over his eight-year career, Matthews has amassed 368 goals, further affirming his status as one of the league’s most lethal goal scorers.
The Colorado Avalanche's Nathan MacKinnon also displayed offensive brilliance, racking up 140 points and securing his first Hart Trophy. MacKinnon's dominance was most evident at five-on-five, where he led the league with 79 points in that situation. The Avalanche benefited significantly from his presence, controlling 52.7% of the expected goals when he was on the rink.
Defensive Dynamos Making a Mark
Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks made a substantial impact from the blue line with 17 goals and 75 assists. His defensive contributions were equally notable, with the Canucks recording a plus-37 goal differential when Hughes was on the ice at five-on-five, underlining his significant two-way play.
Cale Makar also had a stellar season for the Avalanche, setting new career highs with 69 assists and 90 points. His defensive presence was invaluable, helping the Avalanche control 52.7% of the expected goals while he was on the ice.
Power Play Prowess and Leadership
Leon Draisaitl's performance on the power play has been remarkable, with 77 power play goals since the 2021-22 campaign. Over the past six years, he has notched 272 goals and 371 assists, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier talents.
Aleksander Barkov's reliability was on full display last season as he scored 23 goals and provided 57 assists. His defensive acumen is equally impressive, with the Florida Panthers allowing a mere 1.98 expected goals against per 60 minutes (xGA/60) when Barkov was on the ice at five-on-five.
Rising Talent and Steady Performers
Kirill Kaprizov has proven to be one of the most exciting players to watch, tying for fifth in goals with 133 over the past three seasons. His 279 points place him 12th in the league over the same period. The Minnesota Wild's defensive strength was evident when Kaprizov was on the ice, as they allowed just 2.23 xGA/60 at five-on-five.
For the Boston Bruins, the acquisition of Elias Lindholm provides a new dynamic as their No. 1 center. David Pastrnak, with 47 goals and 63 assists last season, continued to demonstrate his elite scoring ability. The Bruins scored at an impressive rate of 3.59 goals for per 60 minutes (GF/60) with Pastrnak on the ice at five-on-five, compared to just 2.25 GF/60 without him.
As the NHL evolves, these standout performances from a range of elite players underscore the high level of competition and skill present in the league. With talent distributed across various teams and roles, the future of hockey looks bright, promising even more exhilarating seasons to come.