The resumption of NHL players competing in the Winter Olympics for the first time since 2014 has reignited excitement across the hockey community. ESPN recently released NHL Olympic player rankings based on the average goals above replacement (GAR) over the past three seasons, placing Connor McDavid third instead of first or second, stirring much discussion among fans and analysts.
In the ranking devised by writer Neil Paine, Colorado Avalanche stars Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar claimed the top two spots, pushing McDavid, widely regarded as the best player in the NHL, to third place.
Analysis Behind McDavid’s Unexpected NHL Olympic Ranking
According to Paine, McDavid’s position was largely influenced by him missing 15 games last season, which contributed to what was considered a “down” year for the superstar. Even with that, McDavid managed over 100 adjusted points for the ninth straight season and secured the 14th spot league-wide in GAR.
“McDavid would be neck-and-neck with MacKinnon for No. 1 if he hadn’t missed 15 games last season, leading to a “down” season by his standards. Of course, a down season for McDavid still meant hitting the century mark in adjusted points for a ninth straight season and ranking 14th in the league in GAR. We should all hope our ‘down years’ are so good,”
— Neil Paine, ESPN writer
At 29 years old, McDavid is currently excelling in the 2025-26 NHL season despite starting somewhat slowly by his lofty standards. Entering the Olympic break, he leads the league with 96 points, derived from 34 goals and 62 assists over 58 games, reinforcing his elite status.
McDavid’s Dominant Performance Highlights Tournament Opener
In Canada’s opening match against Czechia, McDavid demonstrated why he remains a game-changer on the international stage. He contributed three assists in a commanding 5-0 victory, with his impact extending beyond scoring to aggressive plays such as a significant hit on Lukas Sedlek early in the game.
While MacKinnon and Makar also delivered standout performances, McDavid’s speed, skill, and intensity stood apart. His energy and determination suggested a player fully committed to capitalizing on the Olympic opportunity, undeterred by past disappointments.
The sting of consecutive Stanley Cup Final losses remains fresh for McDavid, but his drive to cement his legacy with international gold is more apparent than ever. His focus on this tournament reveals a player ready to overcome setbacks and redefine his career on the world’s biggest hockey stage.
Implications for the NHL and International Hockey
McDavid’s third-place ranking by ESPN reflects the complexity of evaluating elite talent in a highly competitive field and underscores the strength of players like MacKinnon and Makar from the Colorado Avalanche. As the Olympics progress, these rankings contribute to ongoing debates about player impact and team strategies on the global stage.
The tournament also shines a spotlight on the NHL’s return to Olympic competition, promising high-level matchups and memorable moments. McDavid’s pursuit of Olympic gold could be a defining chapter for his career and inspire his teammates and fans alike.
Looking ahead, the NHL and its players will continue to be closely watched as they balance league play with international aspirations, while fans eagerly anticipate how performances in Milan may influence player legacies and national team success.
