In the NHL, every team boasts players whose accomplishments have distinguished them as standout contributors. These players might excel as scoring forwards, skilled defensemen, or exceptional goaltenders. Among these individuals, a select few are deemed the very best, earning a place on their team's Mount Rushmore, representing the top-four players of all time for each franchise. For teams with extensive histories, narrowing it down to four players presents a significant challenge, whereas franchises with shorter histories find this task simpler. This analysis focuses on players from the past 25 years, starting with the 2000-01 season, showcasing figures more familiar to contemporary fans based on their overall performance, postseason achievements, and impact on their respective teams, along with their potential as fan favorites during this era.

For example, the Anaheim Ducks can count Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, Teemu Selänne, and Jean-Sébastien Giguère among their top players. Getzlaf, who served as the longest-serving captain in Ducks history, holds records in games played, assists, and points within the franchise. Perry's accolades include winning the Hart Memorial Trophy and Maurice Richard Trophy during a standout 2010-11 season. Selänne, a Hall of Famer, spent the majority of his career with the Ducks and remains their all-time leader in goals. Giguère's contributions as a goaltender include franchise-leading wins and shutouts, and he was pivotal in the Ducks' Stanley Cup victory in 2007, along with the others.

Similar narratives are evident across other franchises. The Boston Bruins showcase Patrice Bergeron, Zdeno Chára, David Pastrňák, and Brad Marchand, all of whom have played crucial roles in the franchise's modern successes, including the 2011 Stanley Cup win. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres boast Ryan Miller, Jason Pominville, Rasmus Dahlin, and Thomas Vanek, each contributing uniquely to the team's legacy. This trend continues with teams like the Calgary Flames, Carolina Hurricanes, Chicago Blackhawks, Colorado Avalanche, and others, showcasing key players who have shaped their franchises over the past quarter-century. This exercise in analysis provides an engaging look into the most impactful players in recent NHL history.