Ultimate Player Rankings for the 4 Nations Face-Off: Hellebuyck, Makar, and Barkov in the Spotlight

Introduction

The 4 Nations Face-Off is set to kick off in less than a week, with Canada and Sweden facing off in the first matchup on February 12. The United States and Finland will follow on February 13, and the championship game is scheduled for February 20 in Boston. This inaugural tournament will feature 92 players from four hockey powerhouses. But how do these players stack up against each other?

Player Rankings

We’ve assembled a panel of over 50 ESPN broadcasters, analysts, reporters, and editors to rate each player based on their expected performance in the tournament. Here’s a breakdown of the top 40 players:

Top 10 Players

1. Connor McDavid, F, Canada

   • McDavid continues to dominate the NHL, on pace for his fifth straight 100-point season. His leadership and skill make him the undisputed best player in the tournament.

2. Cale Makar, D, Canada

   • Makar’s versatility and offensive prowess make him a key asset for Canada. His ability to impact the game in multiple facets is unmatched.

3. Connor Hellebuyck, G, United States

   • Coming off a Vezina Trophy-winning season, Hellebuyck is having one of the best years of his career. He’s a cornerstone for Team USA.

4. Nathan MacKinnon, F, Canada

   • The reigning Hart Trophy winner is leading the NHL in points. His all-around play will be crucial for Canada’s success.

5. Auston Matthews, F, United States

   • Despite an injury-plagued season, Matthews remains a point-per-game player and a lethal scorer for Team USA.

6. Quinn Hughes, D, United States

   • Hughes is on pace for another 90-point season and is a strong candidate for the Norris Trophy. His defensive skills are vital for Team USA.

7. Aleksander Barkov, F, Finland

   • Barkov is a two-way powerhouse, averaging a point per game. His leadership and skill make him a key player for Finland.

8. Sidney Crosby, F, Canada

   • Crosby continues to defy age, producing at a high level even in a challenging season for Pittsburgh. His leadership is invaluable for Canada.

9. Mitch Marner, F, Canada

   • Marner’s playmaking ability is second to none. He’s a versatile player who can excel in all situations.

10. Jack Hughes, F, United States

    • Hughes is a dominant passer and a dangerous offensive threat. His speed and skill will be key for Team USA.

Key Players to Watch

• Matthew Tkachuk, F, United States: Known for his physicality and scoring ability, Tkachuk is a game-changer for Team USA.
• Victor Hedman, D, Sweden: Hedman’s consistency and leadership make him a cornerstone for Sweden.
• Mikko Rantanen, F, Finland: Rantanen’s recent trade to Carolina has made him the focal point of Finland’s offense.

Conclusion

The 4 Nations Face-Off promises to be a thrilling tournament, showcasing the best talent from Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland. With players like McDavid, Makar, and Hellebuyck leading the way, this tournament is set to be a must-watch event for hockey fans worldwide.