NHL 26 will be released soon, and fans are already debating the player ratings. While EA Sports has introduced updates to gameplay and presentation, the community's attention is focused on its biggest stars.
NHL 26's rankings represent the best in the league, including seasoned players, rising stars, and even a goalie. And as always, some inclusions and omissions have already heated debate among hockey fans.
NHL 26 Top 5 Player Ratings Revealed
Here’s a breakdown of the five highest-rated players in NHL 26:
Connor McDavid – 97 OVR
Well, it's no surprise that EA has awarded Connor McDavid a 97 OVR to reflect his continued dominance as the world's top hockey player. The Edmonton Oilers captain continues to be a nightmare for defenses and a dream for NHL 26 players due to his unparalleled speed, vision, and talent.
Nathan MacKinnon – 96 OVR
MacKinnon is one of the most feared forwards in the NHL because of his explosiveness and two-way domination. The Colorado Avalanche star's well-deserved 96 OVR reflects his consistency and ability to take over games quickly.
Leon Draisaitl – 96 OVR
Leon Draisaitl, McDavid's running mate in Edmonton, is once again a top player in the NHL. His combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ makes him unstoppable at times. The Oilers' one-two punch remains extremely dangerous, as seen by their 96 OVR rating.
Nikita Kucherov – 96 OVR
For many years, Nikita Kucherov, the winger for the Tampa Bay Lightning, has been among the NHL's most innovative and effective players. With elite vision and scoring touch, Kucherov remains one of the league's best offensive weapons with a 96 OVR.
Quinn Hughes – 95 OVR
The Vancouver Canucks captain, Quinn Hughes, is fresh off his best season yet, and EA has rewarded him with a 95 OVR. He is now regarded as one of the league's best blue liners thanks to his skating, puck movement, and defensive advancements.
NHL 26 Top 10 Player Ratings
Rank | Player | Team | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Connor McDavid | Edmonton Oilers | 97 |
2 | Nathan MacKinnon | Colorado Avalanche | 96 |
3 | Leon Draisaitl | Edmonton Oilers | 96 |
4 | Nikita Kucherov | Tampa Bay Lightning | 96 |
5 | Quinn Hughes | Vancouver Canucks | 95 |
6 | Cale Makar | Colorado Avalanche | 95 |
7 | Aleksander Barkov | Florida Panthers | 95 |
8 | Sidney Crosby | Pittsburgh Penguins | 94 |
9 | David Pastrnak | Boston Bruins | 94 |
10 | Connor Hellebuyck | Winnipeg Jets | 94 |
The NHL 26 ratings confirm the popular belief that McDavid remains the best player, with MacKinnon, Draisaitl, and Kocherov chasing him closely. The top 10 shows a good mix of quality at all positions, with Hellebuyck playing goalkeeper and Hughes and Makar leading a new generation of defensemen.
However, some fans are raising concerns about omissions like Auston Matthews, proving once again that ratings debates will remain one of the hottest topics in the NHL.
Stay tuned to RealSport101.com for updates, trailers, and official news on NHL 26 as we get closer to launch.