In hockey, few positions carry as much responsibility—or as much glory—as the center. The best centers in the NHL aren’t just goal scorers; they’re playmakers, defensive anchors, faceoff specialists, and the engines that drive their teams’ success. From leading rushes up the ice to shutting down top opponents, elite centers are the heartbeat of a roster.
This summer, NHL Network revealed its Top 20 Centers in 2025, ranking the best of the best currently playing in the league. And yes—New Jersey Devils fans will be happy to see some familiar names right in the mix.
Before we dive into the full breakdown, if you’re looking for even more Devils and hockey coverage, check out our dedicated Hockey section here.
20. Sam Bennett – Florida Panthers
Bennett has blossomed into a postseason star, leading the Stanley Cup Playoffs in goals last season while helping Florida capture back-to-back championships. His physical, gritty style complements his scoring touch, making him a perfect No. 2 center on a powerhouse roster.
19. Macklin Celebrini – San Jose Sharks
The 2024 first-overall draft pick wasted no time making noise in the NHL, putting up 63 points in his rookie campaign. Celebrini is already showing signs of becoming a franchise centerpiece in San Jose.
18. Tage Thompson – Buffalo Sabres
One of the league’s most explosive scorers, Thompson ripped off 25 goals in the final stretch of last season. His combination of size, reach, and offensive firepower makes him nearly impossible to defend when he’s on his game.
17. Roope Hintz – Dallas Stars
Hintz continues to be one of the most underrated centers in the NHL, producing consistently while thriving in big moments. His blend of speed and finishing ability makes Dallas a legitimate Cup threat year after year.
16. Tim Stützle – Ottawa Senators
Already the face of Ottawa’s rebuild, Stützle is dynamic with the puck and one of the most creative playmakers in the league. His playoff debut last season gave Senators fans hope that brighter days are ahead.
15. Dylan Larkin – Detroit Red Wings
Captain of the Red Wings, Larkin has established himself as one of the league’s most reliable two-way centers. He brings speed, leadership, and the kind of consistency that has helped Detroit climb back into playoff contention.
14. Nico Hischier – New Jersey Devils
Devils captain Nico Hischier finally got the recognition he deserves, landing in the Top 20 after scoring a career-high 35 goals last season. Known for his strong two-way game, Hischier has been the steady backbone of New Jersey’s rise in the Eastern Conference. His inclusion on Switzerland’s Olympic roster further cements his international reputation. Devils fans know he’s not flashy—he’s simply essential.
13. Sebastian Aho – Carolina Hurricanes
Aho has been the engine of Carolina’s offense for years, and his consistency continues to impress. Whether it’s international play or NHL competition, Aho is a difference-maker.
12. Robert Thomas – St. Louis Blues
Thomas’ vision and playmaking make him one of the league’s premier pass-first centers. His ability to elevate teammates’ games is what keeps him in the conversation among the NHL’s elite.
11. Jack Hughes – New Jersey Devils
Here’s the other Devils representative—and what a star he’s become. Even with injuries limiting his availability last season, Hughes remains one of the league’s most electrifying players. His blend of speed, hands, and creativity has made him a nightmare for defenders and a must-watch for fans. With 351 career points already and plenty of prime years ahead, Hughes isn’t just a Top 20 center—he’s the future face of the NHL.
For Devils fans, seeing both Hischier and Hughes on this list is a testament to how far New Jersey has come. You can read even more about the team’s latest moves and outlook in our New Jersey Devils section.
10. Nick Suzuki – Montreal Canadiens
Suzuki continues to establish himself as one of the most dependable young leaders in the league. As captain of the Canadiens, he’s balancing offensive production with defensive responsibility.
9. Mark Scheifele – Winnipeg Jets
The Jets’ franchise leader in goals, Scheifele remains one of the most dangerous offensive centers in the league. His ability to deliver in clutch moments helped Winnipeg capture the Presidents’ Trophy.
8. Brayden Point – Tampa Bay Lightning
Point’s consistency in goal scoring has been nothing short of remarkable. With three straight 40-goal seasons, he remains a cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s championship-caliber roster.
7. Auston Matthews – Toronto Maple Leafs
Arguably the best pure goal scorer in the NHL, Matthews has already passed the 400-goal mark. Every time he’s on the ice, he’s a threat to score.
6. Jack Eichel – Vegas Golden Knights
Fresh off his most productive season yet, Eichel continues to prove he belongs among the league’s elite. A Stanley Cup champion, he’s now a fixture on Team USA’s Olympic roster.
5. Sidney Crosby – Pittsburgh Penguins
Even at 38, Crosby is still going strong. His production, leadership, and legacy speak for themselves. He’s still a Top 5 center in the NHL—two decades after his debut.
4. Aleksander Barkov – Florida Panthers
Barkov’s reputation as one of the best two-way centers in the league is now backed by multiple Stanley Cup championships. Few players combine defensive prowess and offensive impact like him.
3. Leon Draisaitl – Edmonton Oilers
Draisaitl is one of the most dominant players in the world. His scoring touch, vision, and ability to take over games make him a perennial MVP candidate.
2. Nathan MacKinnon – Colorado Avalanche
Explosive, dynamic, and unstoppable, MacKinnon continues to put up elite numbers while driving Colorado’s high-octane offense.
1. Connor McDavid – Edmonton Oilers
No surprise here. McDavid remains the best hockey player on the planet, redefining what dominance looks like in the NHL. His speed, skill, and vision are unmatched.
Final Thoughts
This year’s Top 20 Centers list proves just how much talent the NHL has at the position—but for New Jersey hockey fans, the spotlight shines brightest on Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes. With both leaders cracking the rankings, the Devils have two cornerstones who can carry the team for years to come.
Centers win faceoffs, drive possession, and create scoring chances—but the great ones also shape franchises. If this list tells us anything, it’s that the New Jersey Devils are building something special with their one-two punch down the middle.
For more breakdowns, player rankings, and Devils updates, check out our full hockey coverage here
