1. Connor McDavid
The Edmonton Oiler's first overall selection in the 2015 NHL draft, Connor McDavid has quickly become one of hockey's most exciting young stars. His combination of speed, skill, and tenaciousness on the ice has earned him rave reviews from fans and critics alike. In 2016-17, he was named an NHL All-Star and was awarded the Art Ross Trophy, given to the player with the most points in a season.
2. Auston Matthews
Toronto Maple Leafs’ first overall selection in the 2016 NHL Draft, Auston Matthews is one of the top young players on the rise today. With an impressive rookie season, he quickly established himself as one of the premiere players in the league. He recorded 40 goals and 69 points during his debut season and was named to the All-Rookie Team at the season's end.
3. Patrik Laine
The second overall selection in the 2016 NHL draft by Winnipeg Jets, Patrik Laine has been a revelation since entering into League play. His combination of size, skill, and confidence has made him one of the most exciting players to watch. He finished his rookie season with 36 goals, good enough for second in the entire NHL, and was awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie.
4. Mitch Marner
The fourth overall selection in the 2015 NHL Draft by Toronto Maple Leafs, Mitch Marner has been a dynamic offensive force since entering into League play. His combination of speed, skill, and vision on the ice allows him to make plays that few others can. In 2016-17, he recorded 69 points in 77 games played, which placed him among some of hockey's best rising stars.
5. Dylan Larkin
Drafted 15th overall in the 2014 NHL draft by Detroit Red Wings, Dylan Larkin has quickly established himself as one of hockey’s top young stars. His combination of speed and skill has made him a fan favorite in Motor City. In 2016-17, he recorded 63 points in 80 games played and was named to the 2017 All-Star Game.
6. Brandon Saad
The 43rd overall selection in the 2011 NHL Draft by Chicago Blackhawks, Brandon Saad has developed into one of hockey's top two-way forwards since entering into League play. This five-time 20-goal scorer is an important part of the Blackhawks’ success over the past few seasons and his leadership qualities were recognized when he was named an alternate captain during the 2016-17 season.
7. Morgan Rielly
The fifth overall selection in the 2012 NHL Draft by Toronto Maple Leafs, Morgan Rielly has quickly developed into one of hockey's most talented two-way defensemen. His combination of poise, skill, and skating ability has made him a vital part of the Maple Leafs’ success over the past few seasons. In 2016-17, he recorded 36 points in 76 games played and was named to the 2017 All-Star Game.
8. Shayne Gostisbehere
Selected 78th overall in the 2012 NHL Draft by Philadelphia Flyers, Shayne Gostisbehere has become one of hockey's most exciting young players since entering into League play. His combination of speed, skill, and puck-moving ability make him a dangerous threat on the ice. In 2016-17, he was awarded the Barry Ashbee Trophy as the Flyers’ best defenseman and was named to his first NHL All-Star Game.
9. Jonathan Marchessault
The undrafted free agent signed by Florida Panthers in 2016, Jonathan Marchessault quickly established himself as one of hockey's most dynamic offensive players since entering into League play. His combination of speed, skill, and confidence on the ice has made him a fan favorite in South Florida. In 2016-17, he recorded 30 goals and 51 points in 75 games played and was rewarded with an alternate captaincy for the 2017-18 season.
10. T.J. Oshie
The 24th overall selection in the 2005 NHL Draft by St. Louis Blues, T.J. Oshie has been one of hockey's most consistent offensive players since entering into League play. His combination of speed, skill, and tenacity make him a dangerous threat on the ice, and his leadership abilities have been recognized with an alternate captaincy for the 2017-18 season. In 2016-17, he recorded 56 points in 80 games played and was named to his second consecutive NHL All-Star Game.