I RANK EACH NHL TEAM’S ALL-TIME STARTING LINEUP

Each NHL team has had their fair share of great players. How does each team’s starting six line up against each other? 

The NHL has been around for over 100 years. A majority of its teams have been around for at least 30, though there are some newer teams. Each fanbase has their players they love. All-time greats. One of the best discussions in sports revolves around who’s got the best players.

Though this isn’t always the case, a team will usually start a game with their three best forwards, their two top defensemen, and their best goaltender. This concept led me to an interesting thought – which franchise has the best starting lineup of all-time?

Some guidelines are required. First of all, players must have played for the team for at least three seasons. Either that or they better have made quite the impact. Secondly, while players can be on more than one starting lineup, there’d better be a good reason why. Players have to be a significant part of a franchise’s story to warrant selection.

I considered many things in selecting and evaluating each franchise’s top three forwards, top two defensemen, and best goaltenders. First of all, my mind loves numbers. So they count quite a bit, whether they be stats or awards. Secondly, I tried to be different from everyone else. A few of my choices will probably make you mad. That’s fine, you can discuss them in the comments.

To be fair to the Vegas Golden Knights, I didn’t include them in this exercise. I was going too originally until

30. COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS

FORWARDS: Rick Nash – Ryan Johansen – Cam Atkinson

DEFENSEMEN: Zach Werenski – Seth Jones

GOALIE: Sergei Bobrovsky

The Columbus Blue Jackets are one of the NHL’s youngest franchises. Only the Vegas Golden Knights are newer. They also took a while to grow, as they only have four postseason appearances to their name. And three of them have come in the past five seasons.

At left wing, Rick Nash, even though he’s not positively remembered in Columbus, is the obvious choice. He’s the closest thing to a star the Blue Jackets have ever had. Nash is the franchise leader in goals, assists, and points.

There’s another awkward moment at center, with Ryan Johansen being the best option. He’s the closest thing to a true franchise center the Blue Jackets have ever had. Pierre-Luc Dubois might grow into the role eventually. Johansen’s time in Columbus isn’t remembered too positively for obvious reasons. But his awkward departure shouldn’t diminish what he accomplished there.

Artemi Panarin is not yet eligible, so the choices at right wing are either Cam Atkinson or David Vyborny. The latter made some painful years much more bearable, but the former has already surpassed what the latter has accomplished. So Atkinson’s the pick.

The blueline is a strength of this lineup. Seth Jones and Zach Werenski are two of the best young defensemen in the NHL. Each has already set several franchise records. Though Fedor Tyutin was a reliable defenseman for a long time in Columbus, he was never as good as Jones and Werenski are right now.

You’re not going to find an easier decision on this list than who should be in goal for the Blue Jackets. It’s two-time Vezina Trophy winner Sergei Bobrovsky.

29. ARIZONA COYOTES

FORWARDS: Keith Tkachuk – Jeremy Roenick – Shane Doan

DEFENSEMEN: Oliver Ekman-Larsson – Teppo Numminen

GOALIE: Ilya Bryzgalov

The Arizona Coyotes get hurt in this ranking because I didn’t include any of the original Winnipeg Jets. Also, keep in mind they are a relatively new franchise and have never had a true star. At left wing, you have Keith Tkachuk, a fan favorite who helped the Coyotes get off to a strong start in Arizona.

Centering their top line is the eternally polarizing Jeremy Roenick. Some believe him to be a Hall of Fame caliber player, but he was rarely among the NHL’s best centers. Roenick was very consistent and did well for the Coyotes, so he has that going for him.

At right wing, you have the most popular hockey player in team history – Shane Doan. He was one of the original Coyotes and spent all but one year of his career in Arizona. Doan is the franchise leader in goals, assists, points, and other various categories. He served as their captain from 2003-04 to 2016-17.

The defense features two fan favorites from Europe. Oliver Ekman-Larsson is on the left side. He’s the franchise leader among defensemen in goals scored (102) and ranks third in points (290). On the right side, you have Finnish defenseman Teppo Numminen. He briefly served as the captain from 2001-02 to 2002-03. Numminen trails only Keith Yandle for the franchise lead in assists (214).

In goal, Ilya Bryzgalov is the guy. Mike Smith was close, but his peak wasn’t nearly as good as the Russian’s. Bryzgalov’s 2009-10 season is the best season any Coyotes goalie has had. He’s also the franchise leader in wins with 130.

28. MINNESOTA WILD

FORWARDS: Zach Parise – Mikko Koivu – Marian Gaborik

DEFENSEMEN: Ryan Suter – Jared Spurgeon

GOALIE: Niklas Backstrom

The Minnesota Wild are a very young franchise, so naturally, their starting lineup consists of six active players. Their forward line is led by right wing Marian Gaborik. It’s easy to forget how great he was in his prime, given his recent injury issues. But when you look at the top 10 goal scoring seasons for the Wild, Gaborik’s on the list five times. His 219 goals are a franchise record.

Mikko Koivu already holds the franchise marks in games played (925), assists (466), and points (659). He’s not far behind Gaborik in goals either (193). Koivu’s quietly been one of the best defensive centers in the NHL for at least the past five years. Zach Parise ranks among the franchise leaders in most offensive categories.

Ryan Suter is by a wide margin the best defensemen to ever play for the Wild. He gobbles up minutes at a comical rate and might be a cyborg. That would explain how Suter can play over 25 minutes a night consistently while showing minimal signs of fatigue. Spurgeon has been by his side and only Suter has more points than him among Wild defensemen.

Niklas Backstrom is the franchise leader in wins (194). Though Devan Dubnyk should pass that mark within the next two or three seasons, Backstrom helped the Wild win their only William Jennings Trophy as a rookie. He also finished in the top 10 in Vezina Trophy voting four times during his career. Unfortunately, injuries shortened his career.

27. FLORIDA PANTHERS

FORWARDS: Aleksander Barkov – Olli Jokinen – Pavel Bure

DEFENSEMEN: Brian Campbell – Aaron Ekblad

GOALIE: Roberto Luongo

Pavel Bure is the best skater to ever play for the Florida Panthers. His tenure in the south was short, as he stayed just four seasons (223 games). However, Bure scored 152 games in those 223 games. He made the Panthers a much better team.

Aleksander Barkov is going to surpass Bure one day as their best player. He’s one of the NHL’s budding stars and his two-way game is worth the price of admission. Barkov’s discipline is also elite. It’s remarkable he plays so many minutes for them and rarely commits penalties.

Olli Jokinen holds the franchise records in goals (188) and points (419). Only Stephen Weiss (249) has more assists than Joki’s 231. Jokinen also served as the team captain from 2003 to 2008. Scott Mellanby served as the captain from 1997 to 2001. His 157 goals rank second in franchise history and his 354 points rank third.

The Panthers history of defensemen is not good. Aaron Ekblad is one day going to be the best defenseman in franchise history. After four seasons, his 134 points are already nearly halfway to setting the franchise record in points (290). Considering Ekblad is signed long-term, barring any more concussion issues, he’s going to shatter that mark. He also has a Calder Trophy, something no other Panthers defenseman can say.

With 290 points, the most of any Florida defenseman, Robert Svehla gets the nod. He also placed in Norris Trophy voting multiple times during his eight-season tenure with the Panthers. Svehla represented the team in the 1997 NHL All-Star Game, picking up two assists while helping the Eastern Conference win 11-7.

Roberto Luongo is one of several players to appear on more than one team’s starting lineup. It’s hard to argue against his inclusion on the Panthers list, as he’s the franchise leader in games played and wins.

26. CAROLINA HURRICANES

FORWARDS: Eric Staal – Ron Francis – Rod Brind’Amour

DEFENSEMEN: Glen Wesley – Mark Howe

GOALIE: Cam Ward

The starting forwards are going to be three centers. Mostly because you can’t write the history of the Hurricanes and Whalers without each member of the trio. Ron Francis is such an easy pick. Played a huge role for both the Hartford Whalers and the Carolina Hurricanes. He also served as the general manager for several years.

Eric Staal is arguably the most impressive goal scorer in franchise history. Rod Brind’Amour gets the nod over Kevin Dineen because fans adore him down in Carolina. Each of the starting forwards served as the team captain at some point during the tenure with the franchise.

Glen Wesley ranks third in points among Hurricanes and Whalers defensemen. He also spent 13 years and 913 games with the franchise. Mark Howe was only with the Whalers for three seasons in the NHL, but it’s worth noting he played in the WHA for them for two years as well. As one of the only members of the franchise to be in the Hall of Fame, he gets the nod over Justin Faulk.

Cam Ward has a complicated relationship with Hurricanes fans. He hasn’t been good in about a decade. However, the franchise has rarely had consistency in net. Ward is the only goalie in franchise history to reach 300 wins. The next most wins from a Hurricanes or Whalers goalie is 130. Also, it’s impossible to forget what Ward did for the franchise in 2006, winning the Conn Smythe as the young goalie helped bring the Stanley Cup to Carolina.

25. NASHVILLE PREDATORS

FORWARDS: Filip Forsberg – David Legwand – Martin Erat

DEFENSEMEN: Kimmo Timonen – Shea Weber

GOALIE: Pekka Rinne

This is by far the most awkward starting lineup in NHL history. The Nashville Predators are barely 20 years old, so it’s understandable their lineup is a bit lacking. Filip Forsberg is already arguably the most talented forward in Predators history. With 255 points in 331 games, he’s already ninth in points. Forsberg should soar up the list and will likely end his tenure in Nashville as the franchise’s leader in goals, assists, and points.

David Legwand was a huge part of the franchise for 15 years. In 966 games (a franchise record), he put up 210 goals, 356 assists, and 566 points. Each of those is a franchise record. He added 28 points in 47 postseason games. You can’t write the history of the Predators without including Legwand, who played for Nashville during their first season (1998-99).

Martin Erat was traded for Forsberg, which is hilarious to everyone except Washington Capitals fans. But seriously, he was a good player for the Predators. Consistency is hard to find among wings. In each season from 2003-04 to 2011-12, Erat either reached the 50 point milestone or finished with 49 points. His 481 points are second only to Legwand.

Much like Legwand, you can’t write the narrative of the Predators history without Shea Weber. He was the franchise’s first star. The Predators matching his offer sheet was the most significant moment in franchise history before they made the Stanley Cup Finals in 2017. Weber ranks third in points (443) and second in goals (166). And of course, the Predators captain helped them net P.K. Subban.

The second defenseman spot was hard to decide. Roman Josi certainly warranted discussion. And though Ryan Suter had a suboptimal departure from Nashville, Weber and Suter defined the Predators for a number of years. Kimmo Timonen, who got the Preds tradition of having a great defense started, gets the nod.

Pekka Rinne is one of the most beloved sports figures in the state of Tennessee. Tomas Vokoun was very good with the Predators, but he doesn’t have the resume of Rinne.

24. WINNIPEG JETS

FORWARDS: Ilya Kovalchuk – Dale Hawerchuk – Teemu Selanne

DEFENSEMEN: Toby Enstrom – Dustin Byfuglien

GOALIE: Connor Hellebuyck

Everyone counts. The old Jets franchise counts. So does the current franchise. Just for fun, let’s throw in the Atlanta Thrashers too.

The Jets have an exciting group of forwards. Representing the Thrashers is Ilya Kovalchuk. He made numerous awful teams far more bearable to watch. With the Thrashers, Kovalchuk was never surrounded with much talent. He was basically asked to do everything. And Kovalchuk did precisely that.

Representing the old Jets is Hall of Fame center Dale Hawerchuk. He won a Calder Trophy as an 18-year-old and nearly won a Hart Trophy in 1984-85 with 130 points. Hawerchuk is the best player to ever wear a Jets sweater, at least in the NHL.

Teemu Selanne gets the nod at right wing. He put up 132 points in his rookie season, which to this day is an NHL record. While Teemu’s departure from Winnipeg clouds his legacy, it’s undeniable he’s one of the best skaters to ever play for the Jets.

Winnipeg has never been known for their defensemen. Dustin Byfuglien gets one of the spots, pretty much by default. And hey, if the Jets need an extra forward, Byfuglien could start there as well. Versatility is great, isn’t it? Toby Enstrom has been underrated for most of his career. He finally gets the recognition he warrants with a nod as the second defenseman.

Connor Hellebuyck gets the nod as the starting goalie. If you think 149 regular season games is not enough to justify this, consider that Kari Lehtonen and Ondrej Pavelec are other two options. That’s what I thought.

23. OTTAWA SENATORS

FORWARDS: Dany Heatley – Jason Spezza – Daniel Alfredsson

DEFENSEMEN: Wade Redden – Erik Karlsson

GOALIE: Craig Anderson

Daniel Alfredsson is the best player in franchise history. He holds the franchise records in virtually every offensive category, including goals (426), assists (682), points (1108), even-strength goals, power-play goals, and shorthanded goals. A Senators player has only won a major award six times. Alfreddson has half of them (1995-96 Calder Trophy, 2011-12 King Clancy Memorial Trophy, and 2012-13 Mark Messier Leadership Award).

Jason Spezza’s departure from Ottawa was ugly. But it doesn’t change the fact that he’s the best center the Senators have ever had by a wide margin. Spezza ranks second in Alfredsson in goals (251), assists (436), and points (687).

Dany Heatley’s time with the Senators was short but unforgettable. His 0.57 goals per game and 1.14 points per game in an Ottawa sweater are both franchise records. Heatley only spent four years with the Senators, but he remains the only skater in franchise history to score 50 goals in a season (which he did twice) and he’s the only player to get 100 points twice. Each of Heatley’s four seasons ranks among the top 10 in goals in a single season.

The Senators should regret choosing Wade Redden over Zdeno Chara, but again, you can’t diminish what he did for Ottawa. His 410 points rank second among blueliners to Erik Karlsson. There’s an argument Karlsson is the greatest player in franchise history because of his two Norris Trophies. He’s one of the two right-handed defensemen ever to win multiple Norris Trophies.

Craig Anderson is the best of the bunch when it comes to goaltenders. His 174 wins are a franchise record and his .917 save percentage is the best among goalies who have played in at least 60 games. Anderson’s 2016-17 season cements his legacy in Ottawa as a great goalie and quite possibly an even better human being.

22. VANCOUVER CANUCKS

FORWARDS: Daniel Sedin – Henrik Sedin – Pavel Bure

DEFENSEMEN: Alexander Edler – Mattias Ohlund

GOALIE: Roberto Luongo

I can’t tell you how tempted I was to include Markus Naslund over Pavel Bure because that would give the Vancouver Canucks five Swedish players in their starting lineup. Which seems very fitting. But you can’t exclude the most electrifying goal scorer in franchise history. Bure’s explosiveness and his powerful shot would have made him a perfect linemate for the Sedin twins.

The Sedins are the most significant players in franchise history. They are first and second in most offensive categories. Henrik and Daniel are also the only players in Canucks’ history to pick up a scoring title. The former is the only one to win a Hart Trophy, though the latter came extremely close to doing so.

Alexander Edler is the franchise’s leader in points among defensemen (334). He ranks second to Dennis Kearns in assists (250) and second to Mattias Ohlund in goals (84). Assuming Edler plays next season for the Canucks, he will take over the franchise lead in games played for a defenseman.

Ohlund gets the nod for the second blueline spot over Kearns and Harold Snepsts. The latter two, with all due respect, were good, but never great. Ohlund at least has some Norris Trophy finishes and a second-place Calder Trophy finish to hang his hat on.

As the franchise’s leader in games played and wins, Roberto Luongo is the easy choice for the goaltender.

21. DALLAS STARS

FORWARD: Jamie Benn – Mike Modano – Dino Ciccarelli

DEFENSEMEN: Sergei Zubov – Derian Hatcher

GOALIE: Ed Belfour

The Dallas Stars were originally the Minnesota North Stars, so both teams count. Jamie Benn already ranks second among those who played for the Dallas incarnation in points (596). He’s also the only player in franchise history to win a scoring title and the only one to be named to multiple All-Star teams (two first-team appearances, one second-team).

Mike Modano is in the discussion of “best American forward of all-time”. While he was only named to All-Star team (1999-00 second-team), he’s the franchise leader in goals (552), assists (802), and points (1,359). Modano was also a significant contributor to the 1999-00 Stanley Cup winning team, picking up a league-high 13 assists in 23 games during the magical run. If you ignore a 40 game stint with the Detroit Red Wings (many in Hockeytown do), he spent his entire NHL career with the Stars.

Dino Ciccarelli spent a decade with the franchise. He’s a Hall of Fame forward and is among the franchise leaders in most offensive categories. And who wouldn’t want a forward line with the nickname “Run B.M.C.”?

Defensively, Sergei Zubov is an obvious pick. He was named to the All-Star Game four times (though he did not participate in 2008). Among defensemen, Zubov is the franchise leader in goals (111), assists (438), and points (549). He also placed in Norris Trophy voting 10 times with the Stars. Derian Hatcher captained the Stanley Cup winning team, which gives him an advantage over the other candidates.

Ed Belfour had the misfortune of having most of his best years overlap with those of Patrick Roy and Dominik Hasek. However, he backstopped the Stanley Cup winning team and the other choices are, frankly, unimpressive. Belfour is probably better known for his time with the Chicago Blackhawks, but they have better options. So Eddie gets the nod.

20. BUFFALO SABRES

FORWARDS: Dave Andreychuk – Gilbert Perreault – Rick Martin

DEFENSEMEN: Phil Housley – Mike Ramsey

GOALIE: Dominik Hasek

Don’t let the Buffalo Sabres recent failures fool you. They have a pretty darn solid starting lineup. Two members of the infamous “French Connection” line are starting forwards – Gilbert Perreault and Rick Martin.

The former is by a wide margin the best Sabres skater of all-time. Perreault was an electrifying player, as you felt like he could score any time he had the puck. He’s the franchise leader in goals, assists, and points. Meanwhile, the latter was named to four All-Star teams (two first-team and two second-team). Martin’s 382 goals are second only to Perreault and he also ranks third in points (695).

It was tough to break up the French Connection, but Dave Andreychuk is a forward worth doing it for. He finally got put in the Hall of Fame back in 2017. It was long overdue, as no player has more power-play goals than Andreychuk. Most of his goals weren’t pretty. They were violent, ugly, gritty goals. But they counted the same as a highlight reel goal.

Current coach Phil Housley gets the nod, putting up impressive numbers with the Sabres. His 558 points in 608 games are the most of any Buffalo defensemen. The second defenseman spot goes to Mike Ramsay, who picked up 329 points in 911 games. He also finished in the top 15 in Norris Trophy voting four times with the Sabres.

Dominik Hasek is the obvious choice in net. He single-handedly dragged the Sabres to the 1999 Stanley Cup Finals. And had Brett Hull not scored arguably the most controversial goal in NHL history, maybe Buffalo would have won a Stanley Cup. No goaltender has ever dominated the way “The Dominator” did.

19. SAN JOSE SHARKS

FORWARDS: Patrick Marleau – Joe Thornton – Joe Pavelski

DEFENSEMEN: Marc-Edouard Vlasic – Brent Burns

GOALIE: Evgeni Nabokov

The San Jose Sharks are barely 25 years old, so it’s not overly surprising to see them with five active skaters in their lineup. You’ve got a slam-dunk first-ballot Hall of Fame center in Joe Thornton and a deserving Hall of Fame wing in Patrick Marleau. Both were picked in the 1998 NHL Draft, the former first and the latter second. There aren’t many better first overall and second overall pick combinations in NHL history.

Joe Pavelski isn’t in the same category as Thornton and Marleau, but give him credit for having a seamless transition to captain after it was stripped from Thronton. Excluding the lockout-shortened 2012-13 season, Pavelski has seven consecutive seasons with at least 60 points. He ranks third in franchise history in points (697) and assists (380), while ranking second in goals (317).

Brent Burns is the only Sharks skater not named Thornton to either win a significant award or win one while flanking him (2005-06 Rocket Richard winner Jonathan Cheechoo). He won the 2016-17 Norris Trophy, as well as the NHL Foundation Player Award in 2014-15. Marc-Edouard Vlasic is the perfect partner for Burns. He has finally surpassed Dan Boyle’s legacy in San Jose, which is no easy task.

Evgeni Nabokov is one of the most beloved players in franchise history. He won the Calder Trophy in his rookie season (2000-01). You could argue Nabokov is the most successful Russian goaltender who has ever played in the NHL, though Sergei Bobrovsky is certainly in the conversation as well.

18. ANAHEIM DUCKS

FORWARDS: Paul Kariya – Ryan Getzlaf – Teemu Selanne

DEFENSEMEN: Chris Pronger – Scott Niedermayer

GOALIE: Jean-Sebastien Giguere

The Anaheim Ducks are a relatively new franchise. They were an expansion team back in the 1990’s, a product of the Wayne Gretzky trade that made the NHL realize the gold mine it had in California. While the Ducks don’t have much history, their all-time starting lineup features two Hall of Fame forwards and another who will likely join them.

At left wing, you have one of the NHL’s most dynamic players of the past 30 years in Teemu Selanne. During his prime, few could puck-handle and score like him. Selanne is arguably the greatest Finnish hockey player of all-time. He’s the franchise leader in goals and points. Selanne has five of the top 10 goal scoring seasons in Ducks history.

Ryan Getzlaf has quietly been one of the best two-way centers in the league over the past decade or so. He’s the franchise leader in assists and is within striking distance of Teemu’s franchise mark in points. Given Getzlaf’s international success and impressive career totals, his resume is one the Hall of Fame will likely accept.

Flanking him on the right is Paul Kariya. Much like Selanne, he was an unforgettable player. Kariya won two Lady Byng Trophies and nearly won a Hart Trophy with the Ducks. During his time in Anaheim, he was named to five postseason All-Star teams (first-team three times and second-team twice).

Chris Pronger was the West Coast version of Scott Stevens. Along with Scott Niedermayer, this gave the Ducks basically the same pairing that led the Devils to three Stanley Cups. They were outstanding in 2007. It was a short-lived pairing, but man were they great.

In goal, the Ducks have to go with Jean-Sebastien Giguere. The goalie who brought the Stanley Cup to Anaheim. Also, one of the very few players to win the Conn Smythe Trophy despite losing in the Finals. John Gibson might pass him one day, though.

17. TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING

FORWARDS: Vincent Lecavalier – Steven Stamkos – Martin St. Louis

DEFENSEMEN: Victor Hedman – Dan Boyle

GOALIE: Nikolai Khabibulin

Between Martin St. Louis (953), Vincent Lecavalier (874), and Steven Stamkos (668), you have top three players in points in franchise history. Each member of the trio has played a significant role for a team that has reached the Stanley Cup Finals. Stamkos captained the 2015 team, who fought valiantly but fell to the Chicago Blackhawks. St. Louis and Lecavalier led the Lightning to the 2004 Stanley Cup title.

This line is one Tampa Bay fans have been dreaming about. It features two future Hall of Fame forwards (Stamkos and St. Louis) and one who warrants more discussion than most think (Lecavalier). Between them, the trio has two scoring titles, two goal-scoring titles, a Hart Trophy, and a Ted Lindsey, along with the most ironic Lady Byng Trophy ever, given to St. Louis after demanding a trade because he was left off the initial Team Canada roster for the 2014 Winter Olympics.

Victor Hedman has surpassed every other Lightning defenseman by being named a Norris Trophy finalist on multiple occasions. He is also the franchise leader in points among blueliners (364). Dan Boyle did a lot of great things in Tampa Bay, putting up 253 points in 394 games.

The skaters look pretty darn good. But the Lightning’s history with goaltenders resembles a revolving door. Only one goalie (Ben Bishop) has over 100 wins. In 25 seasons, only five goalies have more than 100 appearances with them. Only two have spent at least five seasons with the Lightning (though Andrei Vasilevskiy will join that group next season). Nikolai Khabibulin played a huge role in bringing the Stanley Cup to Tampa Bay in 2004, so he gets the nod over Bishop.

16. CALGARY FLAMES

FORWARDS: Lanny McDonald – Joe Nieuwendyk – Jarome Iginla

DEFENSEMEN: Al MacInnis – Gary Suter

GOALIE: Mike Vernon

The Calgary Flames all-time starting lineup is a difficult one to create. Mostly because their three best forwards of all-time are all right wings. As the only Flames forward to lead the league in goals and points, Jarome Iginla is a lock. Lanny McDonald gets the nod for the left wing spot over Theoren Fleury, who should be in the Hall of Fame.

Joe Nieuwendyk had an awkward tenure in Calgary, but he did a lot of great things there. He has the most impressive resume of any center to play for the Flames, so he gets the nod over Doug Gilmour.

Al MacInnis helped Calgary win their lone Stanley Cup, so that ensures him of a spot on the list. It was tough to leave Mark Giordano out of the lineup and it’s likely he’ll end his career justifying a spot on it. But you can’t ignore what Gary Suter has done for the franchise.

Mike Vernon is one of the two players to have his number retired (though it’s worth the Flames recirculated Nieuwendyk’s and MacInnis’s numbers to honor them). This gets him the nod over Miikka Kiprusoff.

15. ST. LOUIS BLUES

FORWARDS: Vladimir Tarasenko – Bernie Federko – Brett Hull

DEFENSEMEN: Chris Pronger – Al MacInnis

GOALIE: Glen Hall

It pained me to leave Brian Sutter out of the lineup. But it’s hard to argue Vladimir Tarasenko has not already surpassed him. Don’t get me wrong, Sutter was a consistently good wing. But he was never great. Tarasenko already has been great. He’s made it to two All-Star teams (both second-team) while Sutter never made it to one.

Plus, let’s be real, Blues fans. You have dreamed about Tarasenko and Brett Hull sharing the ice. This makes it a reality. Hull’s easily one of the best pure goal scorers of all-time. Putting Tarasenko on the other side would make both players even more lethal.

Luckily, there’s no controversy over who centers that forward line. It’s Bernie Federko hands down. He’s the franchise leader in points (1,073) and assists (721). Though Federko made the Hall of Fame in 2002, its asinine he had to wait 12 years to get in.

When you’re a mercenary who tries to play for every darn team in the league, it’s hard to pick one team for Chris Pronger. But he won a Norris and a Hart Trophy with the Blues, which surpasses what he did elsewhere. When Pronger won the Hart in 1999-00, he became the first defenseman to win the MVP since Bobby Orr in 1971-72. That alone warrants a spot in the Blues all-time starting lineup.

Al MacInnis won his lone Norris Trophy in St. Louis. Pronger and him formed a very lethal duo for several seasons.

As any Blues fan will tell you, their history with goaltending is ugly. Glenn Hall is probably the best of the bunch. He took an expansion team to the Stanley Cup Finals and won a Conn Smythe despite losing. Plus, Hall won the Vezina Trophy the next season (though it was given out to the goalie who allowed the fewest goals back then). This gives him an insurmountable advantage over the other candidates.

14. WASHINGTON CAPITALS

FORWARDS: Alex Ovechkin – Nicklas Backstrom – Peter Bondra

DEFENSEMEN: Rod Langway – Scott Stevens

GOALIE: Olaf Kolzig

The Washington Capitals have never won a Stanley Cup. But they’ve had a number of impressive players over the years. Alex Ovechkin leads an impressive core of forwards. He’s arguably the best goal scorer of the past 20 years and might be the best ever. Ovechkin is the franchise leader in goals (607) and points (1,122). The NHL should just rename the Rocket Richard Trophy the Alex Ovechkin Trophy because he’s won it more times than anyone else.

Nicklas Backstrom has shed his “underrated” label. He has also shed his “he needs Ovechkin to be good” label. Quietly, Backstrom has been flirting with a point per game pace (799 points in 815 games) over his career. He’s the franchise leader in assists with 590.

Peter Bondra held most of the Capitals records before Ovechkin and Backstrom shattered them. He helped lead Washington to the 1997-98 Stanley Cup Final, where they got swept by the Detroit Red Wings. Bondra would be a perfect complement for Ovechkin with his skating and playmaking abilities.

It’s not a stretch to say Rod Langway saved the Washington Capitals. Before trading for him, they had never reached the postseason. After trading for Langway, the Caps were consistently a playoff threat through the rest of his career. He won two Norris Trophies (1983 and 1984) and served as the team captain for over a decade.

As important as Langway was to the Capitals in the 1980’s, Scott Stevens was important too. This duo set the tone for Washington for years to come. Even in his departure, Stevens helped the Capitals. His trade tree is still alive and kicking, though 2015 draft pick Jonas Siegenthaler is the last branch of it (for now).

As the last goaltender to take the Capitals to the Stanley Cup Final, Olaf Kolzig gets the nod as the goalie. But Braden Holtby would be an understandable addition. Those two, along with Jim Carey, are the only Caps goaltenders to win the Vezina.

This group would kind of be like The Avengers. Langway and Stevens never had guys like Ovechkin, Backstrom, and Bondra playing in front of them. Likewise, those forwards never had such a reliable defensive pairing. Maybe together, they win a Stanley Cup.

13. NEW JERSEY DEVILS

FORWARDS: Patrik Elias – Scott Gomez – John MacLean

DEFENSEMEN: Scott Stevens – Scott Niedermayer

GOALIE: Martin Brodeur

The New Jersey Devils have never been known for their offense. Their starting forward line reflects this, as you have three players who were more known for their two-way play than their scoring. Patrik Elias is the best forward in franchise history, as he holds the franchise marks in goals (408), assists (617), and points (1,025). He’ll be in the Hall of Fame very soon.

Scott Gomez has a bad reputation, but he spent some very good years with the Devils. The diminutive center ranks fourth in points (484). Gomez scored 123 goals and had 361 assists in 606 games. He also played a role in two Stanley Cups. Gomez won the Calder Trophy in his rookie season (1999-2000).

John Maclean was a very solid player for the Devils, picking up 347 goals and 354 assists for 701 total points in 934 games. Luckily for New Jersey, he will be skating for the team instead of coaching for them. Despite Maclean’s forgettable coaching stint, he’s still among the most popular Devils players of all-time.

New Jersey won three Stanley Cups with Scott Stevens and Scott Niedermayer anchoring their blueline. The former might be the best defenseman ever to not win a Norris Trophy. Stevens came close, placing in voting in all but two of his 13 seasons with the Devils. He also won the Conn Smythe in 2000. Niedermayer, like Stevens, is a Hall of Fame defenseman. His 476 points rank fifth in franchise history overall and are the most by any defenseman.

Martin Broduer led the Devils to three Stanley Cups. He’s the all-time leader in wins for any goalie (691), as well as games played (1,266) and shutouts (125). Brodeur won four Vezina Trophies, each of them after he turned 30 years old.

12. NEW YORK RANGERS

FORWARDS: Jean Ratelle – Mark Messier – Rod Gilbert

DEFENSEMEN: Brian Leetch – Harry Howell

GOALIE: Henrik Lundqvist

From 1961 to 1976, Jean Ratelle averaged nearly a point per game with 336 goals, 481 assists, and 817 points in 861 games. He won two Lady Byng Trophies in 1974 and 1976 (though he was traded to the Boston Bruins midseason during the latter). Ratelle also won a Lester B. Pearson Award in 1971, finishing fourth in Hart Trophy voting.

Mark Messier is a huge reason the Rangers won the 1994 Stanley Cup. His guarantee is one of the most memorable moments in franchise history. Messier won the 1991-92 Hart Trophy with the Rangers, as well as the Pearson during the same season. He ranks among the franchise leaders in goals, assists, and points.

Rod Gilbert is the franchise’s leading goal scorer with 406. He also holds the franchise marks in points (1,021) and is second in assists (615). Gilbert was named to two All-Star teams (second-team in 1968, first-team in 1972). He scored at least 20 goals in a season 12 times in his career, which he spent exclusively with the Rangers.

Brian Leetch won the 1994 Conn Smythe, putting up a league-high 23 assists and 34 points in one of the best postseasons a defenseman has ever had. He’s also the only Rangers defenseman to win more than one Norris Trophy (1992 and 1997).

Harry Howell also won a Norris Trophy in 1967. He served as the team captain from 1955 to 1957. In 1,160 games, Howell put up 345 points. It was tempting to Brad Park in the lineup, as he’s often overlooked for finishing second to Bobby Orr a bunch of times in the Norris Trophy race.

Henrik Lundqvist has been the Rangers savior for most of his career. This season marked the first time in his career he played a game with the blue shirts eliminated from the postseason. Lundqvist won the Vezina Trophy in 2012 and is the franchise leader in wins (431).

11. TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS

FORWARDS: Darryl Sittler – Dave Keon – Mats Sundin

DEFENSEMEN: Tim Horton – Borje Salming

GOALIE: Johnny Bower

The Toronto Maple Leafs have a long history as an Original Six team. It’s fitting their roster represents the best of each era in franchise history. Dave Keon is the last Maple Leafs player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy, doing so in 1967. His 365 goals and 858 points in 1,062 games each rank third in franchise history.

Darryl Sittler was a center, but he got moved to left wing. He never won a Stanley Cup, but his 389 goals and 916 points are each second in franchise history. Sittler is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. He participated in three All-Star Games and is arguably the most beloved Maple Leafs player of all-time. Sittler gets the loudest ovation of all the alumni whenever Toronto trots them out.

Mats Sundin served as the Leafs captain for a decade and is the franchise leader in goals (420), assists (567), and points (987). He participated in nine All-Star Games and was featured on two All-Star teams (second-team in 2001-02 and 2003-04).

Tim Horton’s name probably sounds familiar. That’s because he is the namesake of the coffee shop franchise. Even before that honor was bestowed on him, Horton was one of the best Leafs players of all-time. He won four Stanley Cups (1962, 1963, 1964, 1967). Horton was named to the first-team All-Star team on three occasions (1964, 1968, 1969) in addition to three second-team appearances (1954, 1963, 1967).

Borje Salming equaled Horton’s six All-Star team appearances, though he was only named to the first-team once (1977). His 768 points rank fourth in franchise history and lead all Leafs defensemen. Salming was consistently among the Norris Trophy contenders, placing in each of his first seven seasons, including finishing in second twice (1977 and 1980).

Johnny Bower is the most beloved Maple Leafs player of all-time. His recent death sent shockwaves around the league. Bower’s on the ice legacy is impressive enough. He led the Leafs to four Stanley Cups (1962, 1963, 1964, and 1967) and won two Vezina Trophies (1961 and 1965). Bower’s career came after he turned 30, which is when most goaltenders start declining. He was also a perfect Canadian, kind and gracious to everyone around him.

10. COLORADO AVALANCHE

FORWARDS: Peter Forsberg – Joe Sakic – Peter Stastny

DEFENSEMEN: Adam Foote – Rob Blake

GOALIE: Patrick Roy

The Colorado Avalanche used to be the Quebec Nordiques, so both teams are eligible. Peter Forsberg was limited to just 591 games due to injuries. But man was he great. His 755 points rank fifth in franchise history and his 1.296 points per game average is a franchise record. Forsberg won the 1995 Calder Trophy. In 2003, he won both the Art Ross and Hart Trophy.

Joe Sakic is the current general manager of the Avalanche. But before he got the job in the front office, he was one of the best centers in league history. Sakic is the franchise leader in goals (625), assists (1,016), and points (1,641). His 1.167 points per game ratio trails only Forsberg.

Sakic’s awards resume is impressive, as he won two Stanley Cups, the 1996 Conn Smythe Trophy, the 2000-01 Lady Byng, the 2000-01 Hart Trophy, and the 2000-01 Lester B. Pearson Award (now the Ted Lindsey).

Peter Stastny played with the Quebec Nordiques. He’s second in points (1048) and assists (668). The Nordiques retired his number, but the Avalanche put it back in circulation. Stastny’s son Paul later played for the Avalanche, so his contributions went beyond the rink.

Adam Foote played a huge role in helping Colorado win their two Stanley Cups. He was a great defensive defenseman, finishing with a +129 plus-minus rating in 17 years with the Nordiques and Avalanche.

Blake’s best days came with the Kings, but he did play a substantial role in helping the Avalanche win the Stanley Cup in 2001. He finished in the top 10 in Norris Trophy voting in three of his four seasons in Colorado. Blake did enough to warrant inclusion. Plus, the other choices were unimpressive at best.

Patrick Roy is the obvious choice to be the goaltender. After all, his ears are plugged up with two Stanley Cup rings with the Avalanche. The Roy trade is probably the most significant moment in franchise history. They were a pretty mediocre franchise until they got an all-time great goalie with a huge chip on his shoulder.

9. LOS ANGELES KINGS

FORWARDS: Luc Robitaille – Wayne Gretzky – Marcel Dionne

DEFESEMEN: Drew Doughty – Rob Blake

GOALIE: Jonathan Quick

This is still a very impressive lineup. Luc Robitaille is one of the best left wings of all-time. His 1,154 points are second in franchise history and no one has scored more goals in a Kings sweater than his 557. Robitaille made it to eight All-Star teams and won the Calder Trophy in 1987.

I’ve long been an advocate of Marcel Dionne, who is the franchise leader in points with 1,307. Gretzky deserves a ton of credit because under immense pressure, he had a ton of success in a huge media market which was at the time largely untapped by the NHL. But Dionne built him a nice foundation.

Gretzky did his best work with the Edmonton Oilers. But it’s hard to imagine where the Kings (or the NHL) would be had The Great One never played in Los Angeles. Gretzky put up video game-esque numbers in LA with 918 points in 539 games. He won several scoring titles and a Hart Trophy as well.

Drew Doughty is one of the two Kings defensemen to win the Norris Trophy (2016). And, pending the results of this season’s award voting, might become the first to win a second. Doughty has won two Stanley Cups. Rob Blake is the other Kings defenseman with a Norris Trophy.

Jonathan Quick has two Stanley Cups, a William M. Jennings Trophy, and a Conn Smythe. Combined with being the franchise leader in wins (293) that makes his a slam dunk choice as the starting goaltender.

8. NEW YORK ISLANDERS

FORWARDS: Clark Gillies – Bryan Trottier – Mike Bossy

DEFENSEMEN: Denis Potvin – Stefan Persson

GOALIE: Billy Smith

It should come as no surprise this is the New York Islanders all-time starting lineup. After all, they won four Stanley Cups in a row with this motley crew. Why change anything? You could argue John Tavares should be on the roster over Gillies, though.

Clark Gillies is a Hall of Fame forward whose 304 goals, 359 assists, and 653 points each rank fourth in franchise history. He helped the Islanders win four Stanley Cups. In 1977 and 1978, Gillies was named to the first-team All-Star team.

Bryan Trottier’s 853 assists and 1,353 points with the Islanders are both franchise records. His 500 goals rank second to his long-time right wing, who will we get to in a second. Trottier won the 1976 Calder Trophy, as well as an Art Ross and Hart Trophy in 1979. He added a Conn Smythe in 1980.

Mike Bossy had a phenomenal career. The fewest goals he scored in a full season was 38 in his last season. Bossy put at least 50 pucks in the net in every other season. He led the NHL in goal scoring twice, doing so with 69 goals in 1978-79 and 68 goals in 1980-81.

The scary thing is, Bossy could have been even better. Knee injuries shortened his career and he’s still one of the most potent goal scorers of all-time. Bossy won three Lady Byng Trophies as well as the 1982 Conn Smythe Trophy.

Denis Potvin holds the distinct honor of having Rangers fans chant “Potvin sucks” at almost every home game. Besides that, he’s also one of the best defensemen the NHL has ever seen. Potvin was a productive blueliner, accumulating 310 goals, 742 assists (second in franchise history), and 1,052 points (third in franchise history). He won three Norris Trophies and to this day is the only Isles defenseman to win any.

Stefan Persson was the Robin to Potvin’s Batman. He served the role very effectively, picking up 369 points in 622 games. Persson played a big role in each of the Islanders’ four consecutive Stanley Cups.

Billy Smith was one of the first goalies who wasn’t afraid to fight back. Only Ron Hextall surpassed his 490 penalty minutes. Smith was also very effective during an era defined by offense. His 304 wins are a franchise record. Smith added a Vezina Trophy in 1982.

7. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS

FORWARDS: John Leclair – Bobby Clarke – Eric Lindros

DEFENSEMEN: Mark Howe – Jimmy Watson

GOALIE: Bernie Parent

John Leclair made it to five NHL All-Star teams (two first-team and three second-team). He also participated in five All-Star games. Leclair averaged better than a goal every two games, scoring 333 goals in 649 games. His 333 goals are fifth in franchise history and his 0.513 goals per game mark is the third-highest.

Bobby Clarke is your quintessential old-time hockey player. His grin was an unforgettable sight, as he was often missing a few teeth. Clarke won three Hart Trophies and had two stints as the team captain. His 852 assists and 1,210 points are both franchise records. Not only could Clarke score on you, he’d beat you up too. His 1,453 penalty minutes are the fourth-most in Flyers history. Clarke led Philly to two Stanley Cups (1974 and 1975).

Eric Lindros is simply one of the best athletes the city of Philadelphia has ever seen. Various injuries limited him on the ice. But whenever Lindros played, he was must-see television. He won both the Lester B. Pearson and Hart Trophy in 1995 after scoring 29 goals with 70 points. Lindros’ 1.356 points per game average is by far the best in franchise history.

Mark Howe is another exception to my one team rule, and he’s a warranted one. He nearly won a Norris Trophy thrice, finishing second each time (1982, 1986, and 1987). Howe is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. He is also the Flyers’ franchise leader among defensemen in goals (138), assists (342), and points (480).

Eric Desjardins gets a lot of love, but Jimmy Watson gets the nod for the second blueline spot. He was one of the puck movers for the Broad Street Bullies. Watson helped lead the Flyers to consecutive Stanley Cup championships and was a calming force for them. In 613 games, he put up 186 points and he completed his Flyers tenure with a plus-minus rating of +186.

Bernie Parent backstopped Philly to consecutive championships. After both championship runs, he received the Conn Smythe Trophy. Parent won the Vezina Trophy in 19743-74 and 1974-75 as well.

6. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS

FORWARDS: Bobby Hull – Stan Mikita – Patrick Kane

DEFENSEMEN: Duncan Keith – Chris Chelios

GOALIE: Glen Hall

This forward line would do a ton of damage. It also represents different eras of the Chicago Blackhawks. You have Bobby Hull, one of the greatest goal scorers of all-time, representing the 1960’s. His 604 goals are a franchise record. And he would have had even more goals in the NHL had he not joined the WHA.

Also representing the 60’s is Stan Mikita, the franchise’s leader in assists (926) and points (1,467). Between Mikita and Hull, you have seven scoring titles, seven goal-scoring titles, and four Hart Trophies. That increases to eight scoring titles and five Hart Trophies once you include Patrick Kane. Few teams can boast three forwards with a scoring title and a Hart Trophy, but the Blackhawks are one of them.

Duncan Keith and Chris Chelios have both won multiple Norris Trophies. The former is left-handed while the latter is right-handed. This creates a perfect pairing of two of the best defensemen in NHL history. Keith has the 2014-15 Conn Smythe Trophy on his resume after one of the best postseasons any defenseman has ever had.

Hall won two Stanley Cups for the Blackhawks. Tony Esposito did very well for Chicago as well. But Hall’s Stanley Cups and overall legacy is greater than his.

5. EDMONTON OILERS

FORWARDS: Mark Messier – Wayne Gretzky – Jari Kurri

DEFENSEMEN: Paul Coffey – Kevin Lowe

GOALIE: Grant Fuhr

Teams rarely got to see Mark Messier and Wayne Gretzky on the ice at the same time, other than on power-plays. But when they did, they were as unstoppable as any duo. Between the two, you have arguably two of the top five centers of all-time.

Gretzky leads the charge, winning seven scoring titles and eight Hart Trophies with the Oilers. Meanwhile, Messier won a Hart Trophy of his own after The Great One’s trade to the Los Angeles Kings. Gretzky leads the franchise in goals, assists, and points. Messier ranks fourth in goals, second in assists, and third in points.

Most people would probably want to have Jari Kurri as the right wing. After all, Gretzky and his long-time right wing made defenses look foolish for years in the 1980’s. I’m usually not like most people, but I am here.

Paul Coffey played for eight NHL franchises and nine teams (he played for both the Hartford Whalers and Carolina Hurricanes). However, he is most famous for his time with the Oilers. Two of his three Norris Trophies wins came in Edmonton.

Coffey helped start countless breakaways with the Oilers. He was coveted among all the top centers, as he played with Gretzky, Messier, Mario Lemieux, Bryan Trottier, Steve Yzerman, Sergei Fedorov, Ron Francis, Eric Lindros, Doug Gilmour, and Joe Thornton. It’s easy to see why.

Kevin Lowe was a great all-around defenseman. The Oilers asked him to play stellar defense to help account for their risky offense in the 1980’s and 1990’s. Lowe performed beautifully in that role.

Grant Fuhr’s numbers don’t look great, but keep in mind the Oilers didn’t get him much help defensively. He faced a lot of odd-man rushes and breakaways. Fuhr was an underrated key piece to the Oilers dynasty.

4. BOSTON BRUINS

FORWARDS: John Bucyk -Patrice Bergeron – Phil Esposito

DEFESEMEN: Raymond Bourque – Bobby Orr

GOALIE: Tim Thomas

As an Original Six team, it shouldn’t be surprising the Boston Bruins are loaded with talent. Every member of their starting lineup is a member of the Hall of Fame (or will be once they retire). John Bucyk never won a major award if you exclude the Lady Byng (which he won thrice). He’s the all-time leading goal scorer for the Bruins with 545 goals. Bucyk’s 1,339 points are second in franchise history. He also made two All-Star teams.

Phil Esposito was a huge part of the Bruins quasi-dynasty of the 1970’s. From 1968 to 1974, he won five Art Ross Trophies, two Hart Trophies, and three Lester B. Pearson Awards. On top of that, Esposito led the NHL in goals six consecutive times from 1969 to 1975. In 625 games with the Bruins, he put up an astounding 1,012 points. Esposito ranks second in goals (459).

Patrice Bergeron has four Selke Trophies, tied for the most of all-time with Bob Gainey. And unlike him, the Bruins center puts up consistently great offensive numbers. Rick Middleton would be a nice pick as well, but he’s not a Hall of Fame player. Bergeron could retire this second and he’d get in on the first ballot. He makes anyone who plays with better. Why not give him two Hall of Fame forwards and see what happens?

I don’t need to say much about Raymond Bourque or Bobby Orr. Except this – they are at worst two of the top three defensemen of all-time. Depending on how you feel about Nicklas Lidstrom.

The Bruins are stacked with options in goal. You could go with Tiny Thompson, who won a Stanley Cup and four Vezina Trophies. Maybe you like Frank Brimsek, who was named to eight All-Star teams, won two Vezina Trophies, and two Stanley Cups.

This might be recency bias, but I like Tim Thomas. His peak was short, but extremely sweet. Thomas won two Vezina Trophies and led the Bruins to the 2010-11 Stanley Cup title, picking up the Conn Smythe in the process. If I need to win a game, give me Timmy in his prime.

3. DETROIT RED WINGS

FORWARDS: Ted Lindsay – Steve Yzerman – Gordie Howe

DEFENSEMEN: Nicklas Lidstrom – Red Kelly

GOALIE: Terry Sawchuk

Ted Lindsay was an impressive player, tallying 728 points in 852 games with the Detroit Red Wings during an era not known for offense. From 1947 to 1957, he was named to nine All-Star teams. With 78 points in 69 games, Lindsay won the Art Ross Trophy in 1949-50. He also led the NHL in goal scoring in 1947-48.

Steve Yzerman is a legend in Detroit. No captain has ever served longer than him, as he was their captain from 1986 to the end of his career in 2006. Yzerman is second to Gordie Howe in points (1,755) and goals (692). The Captain has a Red Wings franchise record 1,063 assists. Most players don’t get to 1,000 points. Yzerman had over 1,000 assists.

Gordie Howe is, in my humble opinion, the greatest hockey player ever. Here’s why – ask Gretzky, Lemieux, and Orr who the best of all-time is. They will all say it’s Gordie Howe. “Mr. Hockey” holds the franchise records with 786 goals and 1,809 points. Howe won six Art Ross Trophies and six Hart Trophies. He made it to an unbelievable 21 All-Star teams. His number nine is retired by the Red Wings and many feel it should be retired league wide, just like Gretzky’s 99.

Nicklas Lidstrom won seven Norris Trophies and a Conn Smythe. His seven Norris Trophies are tied with Doug Harvey for the second-most of all-time. Only Bobby Orr (eight) has won more. Lidstrom served as the Red Wings captain from 2006 to the end of his career in 2012.

Red Kelly won the first ever Norris Trophy in 1953-54. He was a terrific overall defenseman and helped pave the path for puck movers like Doug Harvey and Bobby Orr. You typically don’t think of defenseman as being “gentlemanly”, but Kelly won three Lady Byng Trophies with the Red Wings, later winning a fourth with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Terry Sawchuk was a beast in goal for the Red Wings. He’s the franchise leader with 447 wins. Until Brodeur broke his record, Sawchuk led the NHL in career shutouts. During his career, he won four Stanley Cups and five Vezina Trophies.

2. MONTREAL CANADIENS

FORWARDS: Guy Lafleur – Jean Beliveau – Maurice Richard

DEFENSEMEN: Doug Harvey – Larry Robinson

GOALIE: Patrick Roy

The Montreal Canadiens are the most storied franchise in the NHL. They have won 23 Stanley Cups, the most of all-time. Naturally, their roster is stacked and is the best of any franchise. It starts at left wing with the electrifying Guy Lafleur. The Habs wanted him desperately in the draft, going as far as to trade for the top pick and sending a player to help a team below that team in the standings midseason.

Lafleur proved to be worth it. His 728 assists and 1,246 points are both franchise records. Lafleur led the Canadiens to five Stanley Cups and also won three Art Ross Trophies along with two Hart Trophies. He was named to five All-Star teams as well. Lafleur gave the Montreal dynasty of the 1970’s top-notch skill.

Jean Beliveau might be the most influential person in Canadiens history. He won 10 Stanley Cups as a player and an additional seven as an executive. Beliveau’s 507 goals rank third in franchise history. His 712 assists and 1,219 points each rank second to Lafleur. Beliveau won the Art Ross Trophy in 1955-56, the Conn Smythe in 1965, and the Hart Trophy in 1955-56 and 1963-64.

Maurice Richard was the NHL’s first great goal scorer. He was the first to pull off the famous “50 goals in 50 games” feat. Richard’s 14 All-Star team nominations are the most of any Canadiens skater, regardless of position. He won the 1946-47 Hart Trophy and led the NHL in goals five times. In 978 games, Richard scored 544 goals and got 966 points. He won eight Stanley Cups.

Doug Harvey and Larry Robinson are both important figures in Canadiens (and NHL) history. Harvey should be known as the guy who paved the way for Bobby Orr. Before Orr, he was the gold standard for defensemen. His seven Norris Trophies trail only the Bruins legend. Larry Robinson won two Norris Trophies, and it could have been more had it not been for several of the best defensemen of all-time.

The Canadiens have countless options in goal. But none of them are better than Roy, who many consider to be the best goalie of all-time. With the Canadiens, he won three Stanley Cups, winning the Conn Smythe twice. Roy also won three Vezina Trophies.

1. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS

FORWARDS: Sidney Crosby – Mario Lemieux – Jaromir Jagr

DEFENSEMEN: Paul Coffey – Larry Murphy

GOALIE: Tom Barrasso

Let’s discuss that top forward line. How on earth would you stop it? Breaking it down, you have this generation’s top player, one of the top three players of all-time, and the most productive right wing of all-time. This doesn’t do it justice. Between Crosby, Lemieux, and Jagr (I’ll only include what he did in Pittsburgh), you have:

• 3,918 regular season points (1,540 goals and 2,378 assists)
• 13 Art Ross Trophies
• Four Conn Smythe Trophies
• Six Hart Trophies
• Nine Ted Lindsay Awards (or Lester B. Pearson Awards)

That line could score at will. How many points would they score in the 1980’s? 150 points apiece? The Oilers might be the only franchise who can match that line because they’re the only other one who can say they have two centers who you could argue are among the five best ever.

Defensively, if you’re going to trot out Crosby, Lemieux, and Jagr, you’ve got to go all-in. Paul Coffey would be a monster with these three forwards. Larry Murphy is a fellow Hall of Fame defenseman. He gets the slight nod over Kris Letang, though it’s very close between them.

In goal, you’re going to need someone who can step up. This Penguins roster is much better at scoring goals than not allowing them. Pittsburgh has three worthy goaltenders, each of whom has won back-to-back Stanley Cups – Marc-Andre Fleury, Matt Murray, and Tom Barrasso.

You honestly couldn’t go wrong with either of them. But I’ll take Barrasso.