In the NHL, each franchise is defined by standout performances that resonate through its history. Players may be distinguished as prolific scorers, skillful defensemen, or exceptional goaltenders. Within each team’s ranks, a select few are celebrated as the best of their era, their legacies solidifying their place on a franchise’s figurative Mount Rushmore. For teams with extensive histories, narrowing down to four players presents a challenge due to the abundance of talent; however, for franchises with shorter histories, the decision is comparatively simpler. This analysis focuses on players from the 2000-01 season to the present, ensuring familiarity for contemporary fans. The selections are based on overall performance, playoff success, and contributions to their respective teams, while also considering their popularity among fans. Notably, some players appear on multiple teams’ honor lists, reflecting careers that spanned different franchises, including relocated teams such as the Atlanta Thrashers (now Winnipeg Jets) and Arizona Coyotes (now Utah Mammoth).

Among the players highlighted for the Anaheim Ducks, Ryan Getzlaf stands out as the longest-serving captain in franchise history, commanding the team for 12 seasons. He ranks as the franchise leader with 1,157 games played, 737 assists, and 1,019 points. Corey Perry, a key figure during his tenure, captured both the Hart Memorial Trophy and Maurice Richard Trophy during the 2010-11 season and ranks second in team history with 372 goals and third with 404 assists. Teemu Selänne, inducted into the Hall of Fame, left an indelible mark on the Ducks, leading the franchise with 457 goals and totaling 988 points. Jean-Sébastien Giguère, the franchise leader in goaltending wins (206) and shutouts (32), was instrumental in the Ducks’ 2007 Stanley Cup championship, earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2023.

For the Boston Bruins, Patrice Bergeron is notable as a six-time recipient of the Frank J. Selke Trophy, ranking third in several franchise categories including games played, goals, and points. Zdeno Chára, another Hall of Famer, captained the team for 14 seasons and won the James Norris Memorial Trophy in 2008-09. The duo played critical roles in the Bruins’ 2011 Stanley Cup win. David Pastrňák, having achieved the milestone of scoring at least 60 goals in a season, is fourth among NHL scorers since his debut in 2014-15. Brad Marchand, also a member of the 2011 Cup-winning team, has shown considerable scoring prowess, ranking fourth among all Bruins players in games played and goals.

The Buffalo Sabres' representation includes Ryan Miller, a Vezina Trophy winner whose career began with a franchise-leading 540 games played as a goaltender, complemented by 284 wins. Jason Pominville significantly contributed to the team for 11 of his 15 seasons, ranking among the franchise's top scorers. Rasmus Dahlin currently ranks second in points among Sabres defensemen and has made an impact with his assists. Thomas Vanek's scoring record since 2000-01 remains exceptional, marking him as a leading scorer for the Sabres.

For the Calgary Flames, Jarome Iginla leads in several all-time franchise marks. He is a Hall of Famer with 1,219 games played, 525 goals, and 1,095 points, having won the Maurice Richard Trophy twice. Miikka Kiprusoff, another franchise icon, won the Vezina Trophy and ranks as the leading goaltender for wins and shutouts. Defenseman Mark Giordano, a recent winner of the James Norris Memorial Trophy, has been crucial to the Flames' defense, while Johnny Gaudreau is included for his Lady Byng Trophy win and scoring ability over nine seasons.

The Carolina Hurricanes’ Mount Rushmore includes Rod Brind'Amour, a two-time winner of the Frank J. Selke Trophy. As team captain, he guided the Hurricanes to a 2006 Stanley Cup victory. Eric Staal played a pivotal role during that championship run and remains a top scorer. Jaccob Slavin and Sebastian Aho have furthered the legacy, with significant contributions to the team’s defense and offense, respectively, helping solidify their places in franchise lore.

In Chicago, notable figures such as Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews contributed immensely to the franchise's success in multiple Stanley Cup championships. Kane's accolades include the Calder Memorial Trophy and the Hart Trophy, while Toews has been recognized for his leadership and skill in tight games. Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook round out the group, with both being key contributors to the team’s victories in 2010, 2013, and 2015.

For the Colorado Avalanche, Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar stand out as dynamic players who have already garnered numerous accolades since their entries into the league. Joe Sakic and Peter Forsberg are legendary figures, celebrated for their contributions to the team's early Cup victories in the late 1990s and early 2000s, ensuring that both remain central to the franchise narrative.

The Columbus Blue Jackets celebrate Sergei Bobrovsky as a two-time Vezina Trophy winner and franchise leader in numerous goaltending categories. Rick Nash, a former standout player, ranks as the franchise's all-time goal leader. Zach Werenski has emerged as a premier defenseman while Boone Jenner plays a foundational role in the franchise’s core.

In Dallas, Mike Modano, a Hall of Famer, leads in almost every statistical category for the franchise. The contributions of Jamie Benn, the only Star to win the Art Ross Trophy, add depth to this Mount Rushmore. Sergei Zubov and Marty Turco round out the selections, both pivotal to the team’s past successes.

The Detroit Red Wings highlight Nicklas Lidström, a seven-time James Norris Trophy winner, alongside Steve Yzerman, whose leadership brought multiple championships to the franchise. Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg round out this legendary group, recognized for their outstanding skills and contributions to the team's enduring success.

Edmonton's Mount Rushmore features Connor McDavid, hailed as one of the greatest players of his generation with multiple awards. Leon Draisaitl, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Ryan Smyth significantly contribute to this esteemed group, demonstrating their individual talents while being integral to the franchise's identity.

The Florida Panthers honor Aleksander Barkov, a talented center, along with Aaron Ekblad, a key part of their defense. Jonathan Huberdeau, who has proven himself as one of the franchise's top scorers, alongside Roberto Luongo, noted as an exceptional goaltender, complete this impactful group.

For the Los Angeles Kings, Anze Kopitar stands as the franchise leader with an impressive array of assists. Drew Doughty, a Norris Trophy winner, alongside Jonathan Quick, who holds franchise goaltending records, and Dustin Brown, a recent captain, ensure the Kings’ legacy remains strong.

The Minnesota Wild's selections include Mikko Koivu, their longest-serving captain. Marián Gáborík, given his scoring prowess, is complemented by Kirill Kaprizov and Jared Spurgeon, both of whom have shaped the franchise's competitive nature.

Montreal's representation includes Carey Price, who holds impressive franchise records for goaltending, alongside long-serving players Saku Koivu, P.K. Subban, and Andrei Markov, who helped define the team's identity and on-ice success over the years.

In Nashville, Roman Josi leads as the franchise's top defenseman. Pekka Rinne's goaltending prowess has been integral for the team, while Filip Forsberg offers a strong offensive presence and Shea Weber provides additional defensive strength.

The New Jersey Devils recognize Martin Brodeur as the NHL's all-time leader in wins and shutouts, supported by Scott Stevens and Scott Niedermayer, two defensive stalwarts, alongside Patrik Eliáš, who contributed significantly to the franchise’s offense.

For the New York Islanders, John Tavares is a standout with a significant scoring record. Brock Nelson, Anders Lee, and Mathew Barzal complement this Mount Rushmore, all contributing to the team’s offensive capabilities.

The New York Rangers salute Henrik Lundqvist, a noted goaltender, supported by Artemi Panarin and Chris Kreider, who have both shown explosive offensive skills. Adam Fox, a young defenseman, enhances the team's competitive edge.

The Ottawa Senators' choices include Daniel Alfredsson, a long-serving franchise captain. Erik Karlsson, a noted defenseman, is complemented by Jason Spezza and Wade Redden, maintaining a strong offensive and defensive balance.

In Philadelphia, Claude Giroux has established himself as a franchise leader alongside Sean Couturier, notable for his defensive skills. Jakub Voráček and Simon Gagné together find a place on the list given their contributions to the team's scoring.

The Pittsburgh Penguins highlight Sidney Crosby, who leads the franchise in games played and assists, alongside Evgeni Malkin and Marc-André Fleury, paramount figures in the team’s modern success. Kris Letang completes this esteemed group as a top defenseman.

The San Jose Sharks honor Patrick Marleau, the franchise's all-time leader in games and points, alongside Joe Thornton, a notable playmaker. Brent Burns and Evgeni Nabokov, significant figures in goaltending and defensively, round out this group.

For the Seattle Kraken, Jared McCann stands out for significant goal records in the team's early years. Vince Dunn, Jordan Eberle, and Adam Larsson all contribute to the team’s foundational moments.

The St. Louis Blues showcase Alex Pietrangelo, who captained the team to its first Stanley Cup victory. Ryan O'Reilly, a critical piece in that championship run, joins Chris Pronger and Vladimir Tarasenko, who remains a premier scorer for the franchise.

In Tampa Bay, Steven Stamkos has left an everlasting impact as the longest-serving captain. Nikita Kucherov, a multiple-Trophy winner, and Hall of Famer Martin St. Louis highlight the offensive legacy, while Victor Hedman provides steadfast defensive prowess.

The Toronto Maple Leafs’ selections include Auston Matthews, recognized for his dominant scoring ability, alongside Mats Sundin, an honorary Hall of Famer. Mitch Marner and Morgan Rielly round out the Mount Rushmore, highlighting their contributions to the team.

For the Arizona Mammoth, Shane Doan remains a defining figure, having spent his entire career with the Coyotes. Clayton Keller, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and Ilya Bryzgalov contribute significantly to the franchise’s narrative.

The Vancouver Canucks celebrate the Sedin twins, who made history as the first twins inducted into the Hall of Fame. Henrik and Daniel Sedin are complemented by Markus Näslund and Quinn Hughes, enhancing the legacy of the franchise.

Finally, in the Vegas Golden Knights' brief yet storied existence, Marc-André Fleury, who played a critical role in their inaugural season, stands with Jonathan Marchessault and Shea Theodore. Jack Eichel, who significantly impacted the team's fortunes, completes their Mount Rushmore, showcasing the rapid success of the franchise.