For any true hockey fan, the thrill of watching the best players in the world compete at the highest level is an experience that’s hard to beat. Throughout the history of the National Hockey League (NHL), there have been countless legends who have left their mark on the sport. Among these, the best NHL players are often famous with their ability to put the puck in the back of the net with remarkable consistency. In this feature, we’re going to take a look at the 10 most successful NHL goal scorers of all time.
These high scorers have earned their places in hockey history through their incredible skills, unwavering determination, and sheer talent. From iconic figures who defined their era to modern-day marvels setting new records, these players have made a lasting impact on the game and captured the hearts of fans around the globe. As you read through this list, you’ll find yourself transported back to unforgettable moments on the ice and may even be inspired to place a few wagers on NHL betting or explore the world of sports betting.
10 – Gordie Howe
09 – Jaromir Jagr
08 – Jari Kurri
07 – The Great One
06 – The Golden Brett
The son of Bobby Hull (another important NHL scorer to grace this list), Brett always had big skates to fill, but after retiring with 741 career goals to his name, the Golden Brett made his papa proud. Armed with a slap similar to his father’s as well as a fearsome wrister that was all his own, Brett Hull created many of hockey’s most thrilling moments during his nearly 20 years on the ice.
05 – Guy Lafleur
Between the years of 1975 and 1979, most hockey fans thought the Montreal Canadiens were unstoppable, and that was largely due to the speed and finesse of Lafleur. Though his career goals number much lower than many scorers on this list, every one of Lafleur’s shots was dramatic and intense, demonstrating that he knew the ice better than dozens of players before and after him.
04 – The Golden Jet
With a wicked slap shot that caused goalies to cower in fear, Bobby Hull earned his nickname ― and a spot among the NHL’s most impressive scorers. In fact, the Golden Jet’s attacks were so fierce that it was during his tenure when goalies began wearing masks. With 610 career goals, each one faster and harder than the last, Hull has an amazing NHL legacy.
03 – Phil Esposito
Though his career started slow, Esposito is now renowned as one of hockey’s true greats. Not only a strong attacker, Esposito was wise with rebounds and deflections, and his shrewdness around the net allowed him to break NHL scoring records ― before the Great One stepped onto the ice. With 717 career goals and five consecutive seasons above 50 goals, Esposito will linger in hockey fans’ memories, and his contributions to the Bruins will not soon be forgot.
02 – Mike Bossy
Though Bossy’s NHL career was brief ― he played for the Islanders for just 10 seasons ― it was astonishing. Every season save one, Bossy exceeded 50 goals, and his total career goals number 570. With dreadfully powerful and precisely aimed shots, Bossy could almost always find the net, which makes it all the more devastating that back problems put him permanently on the bench in 1987.
01 – The Rocket
Though hockey fans tend to have longer memories than other sports enthusiasts, not many today recognize rosters from when hockey was young, in the ‘30s and ‘40s. Yet, that makes Maurice Richard’s lingering fame even more impressive. The Rocket, also known as the Babe Ruth of hockey, was the first player in history to exceed 50 goals in one season, and when he retired in 1960, Richard had a mind-boggling 544 goals to his name ― as much as later power-players, including previously mentioned Lafleur. Fans still wear Canadiens jerseys with pride, remembering hockey’s first true great.
Bonus: This Season’s Scorers to Watch
During hockey’s golden years, between 1970 and 1990, dozens of players rose to prominence as memorably high scorers, but as the sport has become more competitive, fewer players have been able to break that seasonal 50-goal mark. Still, there are a number of scorers that could easily take a spot on this list in later years, as long as they continue to improve and shoot hard, fast, and sure. Names to watch include:
- Jarome Iginla, Avalanche
- Nikita Kucherov, Lightning
- Tomas Tatar, Red Wings
Conclusion
As our journey through the most successful NHL goal scorers comes to an end, it’s important to remember that these players represent the pinnacle of talent and achievement in the world of professional hockey. They have entertained and inspired countless hockey fans with their on-ice prowess, and their legacies will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
Of course, the NHL is always evolving, and new stars are constantly emerging to challenge the records set by these legendary players. As a hockey enthusiast, you can look forward to the excitement of witnessing the next generation of high scorers as they make their mark on the league. And who knows, you might just find yourself adding a few new names to your list of best NHL players as you continue to follow the sport and indulge in some NHL betting action. Here’s to the future legends of hockey – may their careers be filled with thrilling goals, unforgettable moments, and a passion for the game that never wanes.