Nathan MacKinnon
All right, so things get really contentious, here. MacKinnon was ranked second, behind McDavid. MacKinnon has won everything that McDavid has (except a Conn Smythe). But there’s something more valuable that MacKinnon has won: A Stanley Cup.
This fact alone sets MacKinnon apart from McDavid. Yes, McDavid is a generational talent, a former number-one overall pick. But so is MacKinnon.
Moreover, MacKinnon doesn’t have the luxury of leaning on Leon Draisaitl as a second line center. Naturally, having Mikko Rantanen helps. But the bulk of the responsibility of carrying the team falls on MacKinnon’s shoulders.
So, is it fair to claim that MacKinnon is the NHL’s best player?
At the moment, there is an argument to be made in MacKinnon’s favor. He’s currently the engine that drives the Colorado Avalanche. He’s the blood and guts of the team, leading his teammates, especially in captain Gabriel Landekog’s absence. Moreover, there’s an argument to be made in favor of MacKinnon becoming the Avs’ new captain, but that’s a debate for another day.
In the meantime, Nathan MacKinnon is the NHL’s best player. He has the hardware to back it up. He’s got the point totals, goals, and championships to stake his claim.
This upcoming season will be crucial in determining who the NHL’s best player is. If McDavid and the Oilers can win a Cup, the debate could potentially be settled for good.
However, if MacKinnon can lead the Avs to a second Cup in half a decade, it will be hard to make a case for McDavid as the league’s top player.
Who knows, fans could be treated to an Edmonton Oilers-Colorado Avalanche Western Conference Final this season. Such a showdown would be epic and could settle the debate once and for all.