EA Sports Reveals Highest-Rated Players in NHL 26

EA Sports has officially announced the ten highest-rated players who will feature in the much-anticipated NHL 26 video game, set for release on September 12. Topping the list is none other than Edmonton Oilers superstar forward Connor McDavid, boasting an impressive overall rating of 97.

Top 10 Players Rating Breakdown

Following McDavid are elite players including Colorado Avalanche's Nathan MacKinnon, Oilers teammate Leon Draisaitl, and Tampa Bay Lightning's Nikita Kucherov, all rated at 96. This year's elite list highlights a blend of outstanding performers from the last season.

The complete top 10 players are:

• 1. Connor McDavid (Oilers) - 97
• 2. Nathan MacKinnon (Avalanche) - 96
• 3. Leon Draisaitl (Oilers) - 96
• 4. Nikita Kucherov (Lightning) - 96
• 5. Cale Makar (Avalanche) - 95
• 6. Quinn Hughes (Canucks) - 95
• 7. Aleksander Barkov (Panthers) - 94
• 8. Sidney Crosby (Penguins) - 94
• 9. David Pastrňák (Bruins) - 94
• 10. Connor Hellebuyck (Jets) - 93

Connor McDavid's Stellar Performances

Despite finishing with his lowest points total since the 2019-20 season, McDavid still showcased why he is widely regarded as the best player in the league. He recorded a total of 100 points and led the playoffs with 33 points in 26 games, further solidifying his reputation during critical postseason moments.

Other notable performances included MacKinnon, who secured 116 points, and Draisaitl, who captured the Rocket Richard Trophy by leading the league in goals with 52. Kucherov also enjoyed a fantastic season, recording 121 points, earning him the Art Ross Trophy.

Defensive and Goaltending Highlights

This year's ratings also reflect two of the most prolific offensive defensemen: Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes. Makar led all defensemen with 92 points, while Hughes had an impressive 76 points over just 68 games. On the goaltending front, Connor Hellebuyck stood out with an exceptional season, winning the Vezina Trophy and becoming the first goalie since Carey Price to win the Hart Trophy.

Get Ready for NHL 26!

Fans can look forward to getting their hands on NHL 26 on September 12, with those who pre-order the Deluxe Edition able to start playing a week earlier. With such a stellar roster of top-rated players, the excitement is certainly building for what promises to be an exhilarating release.