Explosive new report ignites fan debate over Avalanche superstar Nathan MacKinnon
Photo credit: Jerome Miron / USA TODAY
We are right around that time before the NHL season kicks off and all the preseason rankings are released. Recently, the NHL Network unveiled their top 10 centre list and to no one's surprise, Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche was on it.
MacKinnon was ranked 2nd, however, is there a case to be made that he is actually the league's best center??
MacKinnon ranks again as one of the NHL's elite centers this season.
Nestor Quixtan of Mile High Sticking recently reported on the top 10 ranking, and MacKinnon was once again put behind Connor McDavid. The panel, however, had nothing but nice things to say about MacKinnon.
"He's a violent hockey player. He's a violent skater. And, if you come and try and run him, he's going to give it back to you.» Those comments underscore the physical nature that complements Nathan MacKinnon's all-world skills. The panel highlighted how MacKinnon led the league in assists while scoring over 30 goals in a season.
The consensus was that MacKinnon should be the NHL's best center if not for McDavid's otherworldly play." -Quixtan
The consensus was that MacKinnon should be the NHL's best center if not for McDavid's otherworldly play." -Quixtan
But what otherworldly play are we referring to? Is it only when it makes it onto a highlight reel? MacKinnon scored more points than McDavid last season, he is more physical, great in the defensive zone, a natural born leader, and he has something McDavid doesn't...a Stanley Cup.
"Of course, championships require an entire team. Hockey isn't an individual sport. But if we judge the best center in the league, MacKinnon's proven track record of success gives him a leg up on the competition, most notably Connor McDavid." -Quixtan
Even if we look at their respective teams, the Edmonton Oilers went to back to back Stanley Cup finals and could not get the job done. There is no denying how good McDavid was, especially in the first year winning the Conn Smythe despite losing. But MacKinnon got the job done and his game is arguably better suited for the playoffs compared to McDavid.
There is a strong case to be made that MacKinnon is the best centre and even best player in the league. Truthfully there is a lack of debate over this by the analysts of the NHL. Regardless of where they rank him, he is as much of a generational talent as McDavid, and he has the track record to back it up.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 31 | 33 ANSWERS Explosive new report ignites fan debate over Avalanche superstar Nathan MacKinnon Should MacKinnon have been ranked ahead of McDavid? | ||
| yes | 21 | 63.6 % |
| no | 12 | 36.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
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