Every NHL team boasts a collection of players whose accomplishments distinguish them from their teammates. Some players rank among their club's all-time leading scorers, garner multiple individual awards, or have lifted hockey's coveted Stanley Cup. In recent years, a popular trend among NHL fans has emerged to designate four players for their club's 'Mount Rushmore' as the all-time greatest. For teams with a long history, selecting four all-time greats can be straightforward. However, some franchises have such a wealth of talent at every position that making these selections can be challenging. This analysis will focus specifically on the Mount Rushmore of forwards, drawing from the period starting from the 1990-91 season onward, as these players would be most recognizable to contemporary fans. Evaluating players during their prime offers a clearer picture of their impact in the league.
For teams that have experienced relocations, such as the Arizona Coyotes and the original Winnipeg Jets, players from both iterations have been included in the analysis. The current Winnipeg Jets' list reflects those who played for the Atlanta Thrashers, with the Carolina Hurricanes incorporating the achievements of the Hartford Whalers. Similarly, the Colorado Avalanche's history acknowledges the Quebec Nordiques, while the Dallas Stars honor the Minnesota North Stars. This exercise invites fans to engage with the idea of who truly deserves a spot on their team's Mount Rushmore of forwards. The article concludes with an invitation for readers to share their thoughts and suggestions regarding any players potentially overlooked in this exploration.
Starting with the Anaheim Ducks, Ryan Getzlaf stands out as a pivotal figure. He played an instrumental role in the Ducks' 2006-07 Stanley Cup victory and served as the franchise's longest-serving captain from 2010-11 until his retirement post the 2021-22 season. Getzlaf holds impressive franchise records, leading with 1,157 games played, 737 assists, and 1,019 points. Teemu Selänne, another iconic figure for the Ducks, had two tenures with the team and remains the franchise leader in goals with 457. He also boasts the single-season record for most goals with 52 and ranks second in assists and points. Corey Perry is also a significant player for the Ducks, aiding in their 2007 Stanley Cup championship and registering over 370 goals during his tenure with the team.
The Boston Bruins' Mount Rushmore includes Patrice Bergeron, known for his consistent excellence and winning the Frank J. Selke Trophy six times. He was integral to the Bruins' 2011 Stanley Cup triumph and has impressive franchise statistics, including being third all-time in games played. David Pastrňák and Brad Marchand are also notable forwards, both having made their marks with multiple scoring titles and contributions to playoff success. Cam Neely, recognized for his prowess as a power forward, rounds out the list with an impressive goal-scoring record despite a career hindered by injuries.
In Buffalo, Pat LaFontaine's contributions to the Sabres remain legendary. His single-season achievements of 148 points and 95 assists highlight his offensive capability, while Alexander Mogilny's impact as a dynamic scorer positioned him as a franchise great. Dale Hawerchuk, known for his consistency, adds depth to this list, while Jason Pominville's two-way play showcases the defensive contributions expected of forwards.
Jarome Iginla defines the Calgary Flames' history as their longest-serving captain and one of the all-time leading scorers. His multiple trophies and Stanley Cup victories underscore his influence. Theoren Fleury, with his dynamic play, coupled with Johnny Gaudreau's recent success, adds a modern perspective to the franchise's storied lineup of forwards. Joe Nieuwendyk's steady scoring during his time with the franchise enhances the forward group.
For the Carolina Hurricanes, Rod Brind'Amour's leadership and Stanley Cup victory highlight his importance in the franchise's identity. Eric Staal also played a crucial role in their success, while Sebastian Aho represents the modern talent still actively shaping the team's future. Ron Francis' long tenure and leadership during his time ensure he is remembered as a key figure.
In Chicago, Patrick Kane's accolades, including three Stanley Cup championships and his place among the franchise's top scorers, solidify his status. Jonathan Toews' dual achievements as captain and a scoring leader also demonstrate his lasting contributions. Jeremy Roenick represents the explosive offensive talent of a previous generation, while Marián Hossa's two-way play further enriches this storied franchise's history.
For the Colorado Avalanche, Joe Sakic's lasting legacy is defined by his statistical milestones and championship pedigree. Nathan MacKinnon's ascendance into stardom alongside Peter Forsberg's two-way contributions represent the franchise's excellence across generations, while Milan Hejduk adds a unique scoring touch to this forward list.
Rick Nash's record-setting tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets establishes him as their all-time leading scorer. Cam Atkinson’s scoring achievements show a more recent contribution, while Boone Jenner's leadership reflects modern values. Nick Foligno's significant years with the franchise ensure he is recognized.
Steve Yzerman's leadership and contributions to the Detroit Red Wings via three Stanley Cups are unquestionable. Pavel Datsyuk's offensive talent, coupled with Sergei Fedorov’s two-way impact, signifies the high level of play that defined an era. Henrik Zetterberg rounds out a group of elite forwards with remarkable careers.
Connor McDavid's status as a generational player for the Edmonton Oilers shines through in his multiple awards and records. Leon Draisaitl, achieving success in his own right, adds depth to this impressive lineup, while Ryan Smyth and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins embody the franchise's history through different eras.
In Florida, Aleksander Barkov has quickly established himself as a leader and vital contributor. Jonathan Huberdeau's achievements, alongside Pavel Bure's thrilling playing style and Matthew Tkachuk's recent additions to the franchise highlight the players who have defined the franchise's forward section.
Anže Kopitar’s illustrious career with the Los Angeles Kings is marked by two Stanley Cups and numerous awards. Wayne Gretzky's tenure, although brief, produced significant outcomes, while Luc Robitaille's scoring prowess further emphasizes the Kings' forward talent. Dustin Brown completes this examination of key players in Kings history.
Mikko Koivu's long-standing relationship with the Minnesota Wild as their captain signifies his importance. Marian Gaborik’s record-setting goal achievements establish him as a franchise cornerstone, while Kirill Kaprizov’s recent achievements capture the current generation's energy. Zach Parise’s contributions also highlight the team's commitment to strong and consistent forward play.
In Montreal, Guy Carbonneau's leadership and defensive prowess are notable, while Saku Koivu’s inspiring comeback story adds depth. Tomáš Plekanec’s steady offensive play ensures he is remembered, while Nick Suzuki represents the present day with his consistent improvement and scoring capability.
Filip Forsberg, with his franchise records in Nashville, highlights his importance, alongside David Legwand’s foundational years. Martin Erat’s presence adds notable contributions to the franchise’s history, while Ryan Johansen exhibits modern scoring leadership.
In New Jersey, Patrik Elias's record-setting career established a robust forward foundation. Jack Hughes's emerging talents represent the future of the franchise as he seeks to build on his successes. Bobby Holik and Travis Zajac's continued contributions signify their importance in different eras for the Devils.
In New York, John Tavares's impact as a No. 1 overall pick defined the Islanders' trajectory. Brock Nelson and Anders Lee both continued to solidify their positions as top forwards while Mathew Barzal adds a dynamic play stylistic approach to the lineup.
Mark Messier, credited with leading the Rangers to a Stanley Cup, remains a revered figure. Chris Kreider's recent scoring success showcases modern talent, while Adam Graves’ role in the club's history rounds out the forwards' influence. Artemi Panarin’s impact highlights the current scoring capability, establishing his own legacy.
Daniel Alfredsson’s contributions define the Ottawa Senators' foundation, alongside Jason Spezza. The modern power forward in Brady Tkachuk represents a thriving force, while Marián Hossa’s early impact reminds fans of past successes in franchise history.
Claude Giroux’s dynamic play and leadership, with a strong history with the Flyers, sets an impressive standard. Eric Lindros’s power-forward play left a mark, while John LeClair and Mark Recchi's remarkable achievements further solidify this prominent franchise's forward lineup.
Finally, Mario Lemieux and Sidney Crosby’s importance to the Pittsburgh Penguins cannot be overstated, with each leading their respective eras. Jaromir Jágr contributed to multiple championships with his significant goal scoring, while Evgeni Malkin rounds out a group synonymous with success in the franchise.
Lastly, the Vegas Golden Knights' quick ascendance saw Jonathan Marchessault’s record-setting scoring lead the way, with Mark Stone and William Karlsson further enriching the team narrative. Jack Eichel’s recent contributions only enhance the forward attack, showcasing the team’s evolving talent.
