NHL Legends by Jersey Number: Honoring the Best Player to Ever Wear Each Specific Number.
  • 353 views
  • 2 min read

Selecting the greatest NHL player for each jersey number is a daunting task, sparking endless debates among hockey fans. Here's a look at some of the top choices, acknowledging that personal preferences and criteria will always play a significant role.

For the single digits, legendary goaltender Johnny Bower, who wore number 1, stands out. Doug Harvey, a dominant defenseman with the Montreal Canadiens, claims number 2. The number 4 rightfully belongs to Bobby Orr, a revolutionary defenseman who redefined the position with his offensive prowess. Nicklas Lidstrom, known for his exceptional defensive skills and longevity, is the choice for number 5. Phil Esposito, a prolific goal-scorer, is the pick for number 7. Gordie Howe, an icon of toughness and skill, is synonymous with number 9.

Moving into the teens, Guy Lafleur, with his offensive flair, gets the nod for number 10. Mark Messier, a dynamic leader and clutch performer, is the best to wear number 11. While several stars have donned number 13, including Pavel Datsyuk, Mats Sundin gets selected for the number. Brendan Shanahan, a power forward with a scoring touch, is the choice for number 14. Brett Hull, one of the purest goal-scorers in NHL history, made number 16 famous. Jari Kurri, a key member of the Edmonton Oilers dynasty, is the top player for number 17. Steve Yzerman, a leader and two-way star for the Detroit Red Wings, is the definitive number 19.

In the twenties, Stan Mikita, an icon with the Chicago Blackhawks, is selected for number 21. Mike Bossy, whose goal-scoring ability was among the best, represents number 22. Chris Chelios, known for his longevity and grit, is the top choice for number 24. Peter Stastny, a gifted playmaker, stands out for number 26. Scott Niedermayer, a smooth-skating and highly effective defenseman, is the pick for number 27. Ken Dryden, a dominant and intellectual presence in goal for the Montreal Canadiens, earns the selection for number 29. Martin Brodeur, who redefined goaltending with his puck-handling skills and longevity, is the clear choice for number 30.

Higher numbers also boast some remarkable players. Mario Lemieux, arguably one of the most talented players ever, owns number 66. Jaromir Jagr, with his incredible skill and longevity, is the greatest to wear number 68. Evgeni Malkin, a dominant offensive force, is the selection for number 71. Ray Bourque, a classy and skilled defenseman, is best known for number 77. Sidney Crosby, a generational talent and leader, has made number 87 iconic. Patrick Kane, known for his incredible offensive skills, is the choice for number 88. Doug Gilmour is remembered for number 93. Finally, Connor McDavid, with his unmatched speed and skill, is the obvious pick for number 97.

Alexander Ovechkin is the best player to wear the number 8. He is still actively adding to his already impressive goal total.

These selections represent a mix of eras and playing styles, highlighting the diverse talent that has graced the NHL. This is not a definitive list, and the debate will continue as new players emerge and legends are re-evaluated.


Writer - Isha Sharma
Passionate about culture, society, and sports, Isha brings a fresh, insightful perspective to her early journalism. She's keen on exploring her city's evolving cultural landscape, covering local arts, music, and community events. Isha is developing an engaging, informative writing style to capture artistic vibrancy and diversity. She's also interested in how cultural trends reflect and influence broader social dynamics, alongside her enthusiasm for the world of sports.
Advertisement

Latest Post


Wiaan Mulder's recent decision to declare South Africa's innings at 626/5, while he was batting at an unbeaten 367, has stirred a significant debate in the cricket world. Mulder's score is the highest ever by a South African batter in Tests, surpassi...
  • 451 views
  • 2 min

Day 1 of the third Test between England and India at Lord's Cricket Ground witnessed an unusual interruption when a swarm of ladybugs invaded the pitch, causing a brief halt in play. The incident occurred during the final session on Thursday, leaving...
  • 470 views
  • 2 min

Jasprit Bumrah's recent performance has drawn high praise from cricket legends and fans alike, particularly his sensational delivery that dismissed Harry Brook during the recent Test match. The dismissal, however, was marred by a no-ball. Despite the...
  • 398 views
  • 2 min

Day one of the third test between England and India at Lord's Cricket Ground concluded with a moment of playful drama, as Ravindra Jadeja teased Joe Root, who was left stranded on 99 not out. The incident occurred in the final over of the day, bowled...
  • 336 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement
The Dallas Stars and Pittsburgh Penguins recently completed a trade involving defensemen, with Matt Dumba and a 2028 second-round pick heading to Pittsburgh in exchange for Vladislav Kolyachonok. Here's a breakdown of the trade and a look at how each...
  • 191 views
  • 2 min

The Edmonton Oilers have revealed updated jersey numbers, signaling changes within the team's forward lineup. This update confirms that the team is parting ways with at least one forward as new players arrive and claim available jersey numbers. **Ne...
  • 377 views
  • 2 min

Atlanta United President and CEO Garth Lagerwey is taking an indefinite leave of absence after being diagnosed with cancer. The announcement was made on Thursday, July 10, 2025, with the club stating that Lagerwey has already begun treatment. The tea...
  • 335 views
  • 2 min

Amidst the whirlwind of NHL offseason speculation, Ilya Sorokin's agent, Dan Milstein, has firmly dismissed recent trade rumors surrounding the New York Islanders' star goaltender. The clarification comes after reports suggested the Islanders had con...
  • 472 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement
About   •   Terms   •   Privacy
© 2025 SportsBuzz360