Ranking the Hart Trophy winners since 2005 is a challenging exercise, given the different contexts and criteria that influence the voting each year. The Hart Memorial Trophy is awarded annually to the player judged to be the most valuable to his team. Here's an attempt to rank them, considering factors like individual performance, impact on their team, and the uniqueness of their achievement.

Tier 1: Defining Excellence

1. Connor McDavid (2016-17, 2020-21, 2022-23): McDavid's multiple wins speak to his consistent dominance. His 2020-21 season was particularly impressive, as he unanimously won the Hart Trophy.
2. Sidney Crosby (2006-07, 2013-14): Crosby's early win in 2007 signaled the arrival of a generational talent. His 2013-14 win further cemented his status as one of the game's greats.

Tier 2: Exceptional Seasons

1. Alex Ovechkin (2007-08, 2008-09, 2012-13): Ovechkin's goal-scoring prowess is legendary, and his three Hart Trophies reflect his impact. Each of his wins marked a period of exceptional offensive dominance.
2. Joe Thornton (2005-06): Thornton's win is unique as he is the only player to ever be traded during his Hart Trophy season. He had a historic season, amassing 125 points, the most since Jaromir Jagr in 1998-99.
3. Nikita Kucherov (2018-19): Kucherov's outstanding 2018-19 season saw him reach 128 points, leading the league and solidifying his place among the elite.

Tier 3: Standout Performances

1. Nathan MacKinnon (2023-24): MacKinnon's consistent performance and leadership led the Avalanche. Despite other players reaching the 100 assist mark, MacKinnon took home the award with 140 points.
2. Evgeni Malkin (2011-12): Malkin's Hart Trophy win in 2012 was well-deserved. He posted a career-high 50 goals and a league-leading 109 points.
3. Carey Price (2014-15): Price's win was a testament to his outstanding goaltending. Goaltenders rarely win the Hart, making his achievement all the more significant.

Tier 4: Defining Team Value

1. Connor Hellebuyck (2024-25): Hellebuyck posted a massive 47 wins, along with a .925 save percentage and 2.00 goals against average (GAA).
2. Leon Draisaitl (2019-20): Draisaitl emerged from the shadows of McDavid to capture the Hart in 2020. His outstanding offensive performance highlighted his individual brilliance.
3. Patrick Kane (2015-16): Kane's outstanding season saw him score 46 goals and 106 points, leading the league. It was a significant year for Kane, finally having his regular-season breakout.

Tier 5: Unique Contributions

1. Auston Matthews (2021-22): Matthews led the league in goal scoring with 60 goals, becoming the first player since Steven Stamkos in 2011-12 to reach the 60-goal mark.
2. Taylor Hall (2017-18): Hall's Hart Trophy win with the New Jersey Devils was a testament to his impact on the team. He had 39 goals and 93 points.
3. Henrik Sedin (2009-10): Sedin's playmaking abilities were on full display during his Hart Trophy season. He went off for a league-leading 83 assists and 112 points.
4. Corey Perry (2010-11): Perry's win was somewhat of a surprise, but he led the league with 50 goals, including 19 in the final 16 games.

This ranking is subjective and open to debate. Each of these players had remarkable seasons that earned them the NHL's most prestigious individual award.