Canada, a nation synonymous with hockey, has produced countless stars who have graced the NHL. From coast to coast, each province boasts its own unique hockey heritage and legacy. Here's a look at the best current NHL player hailing from each Canadian province:
Alberta: Cale Makar
Hailing from Calgary, Alberta, Cale Makar stands out as one of the NHL's premier defensemen. Makar plays for the Colorado Avalanche, and his impact has been nothing short of transformative. Makar won the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year in 2020. Makar also won the Norris Trophy as the league’s best defenseman in 2022, and the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the 2022 playoffs, leading the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup victory. His offensive capabilities, combined with his defensive responsibility, makes him a top player from Alberta.
British Columbia: Carey Price
Despite recent setbacks due to injury, Carey Price remains the gold standard for goaltenders from British Columbia. Born in Anahim Lake, Price has been the backbone of the Montreal Canadiens for over a decade. A former Vezina Trophy winner and Hart Trophy recipient, Price's calm demeanor and exceptional athleticism have made him one of the most respected and admired players in the league.
Manitoba: Connor Hellebuyck
Winnipeg native Connor Hellebuyck has solidified himself as one of the NHL's top goaltenders. Hellebuyck is the starting goalie for the Winnipeg Jets and won the Vezina Trophy in 2020. Hellebuyck continues to be a vital asset for the Jets.
New Brunswick: Jake Allen
From Fredericton, New Brunswick, Jake Allen is a respected goaltender with a decade of NHL experience. Currently playing for the New Jersey Devils, Allen has provided stability and experience to the team's goaltending tandem. Allen has played in a backup and starting role during his time in the NHL, and he continues to be a solid presence in the net.
Newfoundland and Labrador: Dawson Mercer
Representing Newfoundland and Labrador, Dawson Mercer is a rising star in the New Jersey Devils organization. Drafted 18th overall in 2020, Mercer has quickly established himself as a versatile and skilled forward. With a promising career ahead of him, Mercer embodies the growing hockey talent emerging from Newfoundland.
Nova Scotia: Sidney Crosby
Sidney Crosby, the pride of Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, is undoubtedly one of the greatest hockey players of all time. "Sid the Kid" has led the Pittsburgh Penguins to three Stanley Cup championships, won multiple Hart Trophies, and earned numerous other accolades. Crosby's exceptional skill, leadership, and dedication to the game have made him an icon in Nova Scotia and across the hockey world.
Ontario: Connor McDavid
Hailing from Richmond Hill, Ontario, Connor McDavid is widely regarded as the best player in the NHL today. The captain of the Edmonton Oilers, McDavid, is a generational talent with unmatched speed, skill, and hockey sense. A multiple-time Art Ross Trophy winner and Hart Trophy recipient, McDavid continues to redefine what it means to be an elite player in the modern NHL.
Prince Edward Island: Brad Richards
While Brad Richards has retired from the NHL, his impact on hockey in Prince Edward Island remains significant. Born in Murray Harbour, Richards had a remarkable career, winning two Stanley Cups and a Conn Smythe Trophy. Although no active NHL players are currently from Prince Edward Island, Richards' legacy serves as an inspiration for aspiring hockey players in the province.
Quebec: Patrice Bergeron
Although Patrice Bergeron has retired, he stands as the best player from Quebec. Bergeron played his entire career for the Boston Bruins, winning a Stanley Cup and multiple Selke Trophies as the league’s best defensive forward. Bergeron’s two way play and leadership made him one of the most respected players in the NHL.
Saskatchewan: Jordan Eberle
Jordan Eberle, from Regina, Saskatchewan, has been a consistent offensive performer throughout his NHL career. Currently playing for the Seattle Kraken, Eberle has reached the 1,000-game milestone. Eberle has over 700 points in his NHL career, and he continues to be a valuable asset to his team.