HannahPeck

With thousands watching the Canadian win in the 4 Nations, questions of Crosby passing the torch to McDavid began to circulate. While McDavid himself downplayed the notion—telling NHL reporters, “I don’t look at the torch being passed”—it raises a bigger question: Are we witnessing a generational shift in the NHL?

Hockey has had clear transitions from superstar to superstar. In the 2024-25 season, it has been clear to see new stars begin to emerge. With young players like Bedard and Celebrini, you can’t help but ask: Is the torch of the great players beginning to be passed right before our eyes?

The New Guard: Who Are They?

Connor Bedard (Chicago Blackhawks) Connor Bedard, a highly anticipated draft, was secured quickly by Blackhawks drafting him 1st overall in 2023. His rookie season was marked with 61 points (22 goals and 39 assists) which earned him the 2024 Calder Trophy. Bedsy has a fun play style on the ice, making him not only a talented player, but an entertaining one. The Blackhawks are counting on Connor Bedard to lead them as they continue to rebuild and reset. 

Macklin Celebrini (San Jose Sharks) San Jose’s first-overall pick in 2024, Celebrini has wasted no time making an impact. His rookie season has lead him to a current production of 52 points (21 goals and 31 assists) and continues to improve every game. Celebrini is breaking records once set by the legends themselves. 

The Old Guard: Still Elite?

For nearly two decades, Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, and Connor McDavid have dominated the NHL. 

Sidney Crosby (Pittsburgh Penguins) Drafted first overall in 2005, Crosby has become one of the greatest players of all time. His 102-point rookie season (39 goals, 63 assists) set the precedent for a career that includes three Stanley Cups (2009, 2016, 2017), two Art Ross Trophies, and two Hart Trophies to name few. No matter who your team is, Crosby has won the respect and love of fans across the globe.

Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers) While McDavid has lived up to expectation since being drafted first overall in 2015, he’s also struggled to bring home a Stanley Cup to Edmonton. Even still, he’s recorded seven 100-point seasons, five Art Ross Trophies, three Hart Trophies, and claimed a Conn Smythe Trophy. McDavid’s speed and playmaking ability remain unmatched, proving he’s still at the peak of his powers.

Alex Ovechkin (Washington Capitals) The greatest goal-scorer of the modern era, Ovechkin’s rookie season in 2005-06 (52 goals, 54 assists, 106 points) set him off to a great start. Ovi is a three-time Hart Trophy winner, a Stanley Cup champion (2018), and broke the Great One’s all time goal scoring record!

Head-to-Head Comparisons

Looking at the numbers, today’s young players are making an impact and doing so in a fast and competitive way. 

Is This the Year of the Shift?

With superstars like Crosby inspiring the popularity of the NHL, rookies continue to get better and better. As teams begin centering themselves on their young stars, it’s clear to see a new generation begin to form right in front of us. 

As we look ahead to the next 3-5 years, change is inevitable. Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin-who will likely retire soon-the league will be run by scoring superstars like Bedard and Celebrini. 

So, what do you think? Is this just another phase in NHL history, or are we witnessing a real takeover?