NHL Network’s 2025 Top-20 Defensemen List is Awful
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The Hockey Writers
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The NHL Network's recent list of the top 20 defensemen for 2025 has sparked a heated debate among hockey fans and analysts alike. Notably, the list has been criticized for glaring omissions and questionable rankings that don't align with players' performances. Among those mentioned, Adam Fox, a standout for the New York Rangers, continues to receive accolades for his offensive prowess and defensive reliability, yet finds himself ranked lower than expected on the list.
In contrast, players like P.K. Subban received surprising recognition despite their performance waning in recent seasons. Critics argue that a player’s current form should be the priority when ranking defensemen, rather than a historical perspective or reputation that may not accurately represent present abilities. Fans took to social media, expressing their disbelief at seeing Subban on the list while elite defensemen such as Cale Makar were notably absent.
Additionally, inclusion of players like Morgan Rielly from the Toronto Maple Leafs stirred controversy, as many supporters believe that other underperforming players should have been placed lower on the hierarchy. The discourse has highlighted the subjective nature of rankings in the sport, where emotions often run high, and overlooked talent can lead to passionate discussions among fans.
This ranking predicament reinforces the importance of current play over past accolades, and as hockey enthusiasts gear up for the 2025 season, the perspectives on these defensemen will evolve as new talents rise and established veterans face the pressures of consistent play. As the debate continues, fans eagerly await the season to determine which players truly deserve their recognition on such lists.
In contrast, players like P.K. Subban received surprising recognition despite their performance waning in recent seasons. Critics argue that a player’s current form should be the priority when ranking defensemen, rather than a historical perspective or reputation that may not accurately represent present abilities. Fans took to social media, expressing their disbelief at seeing Subban on the list while elite defensemen such as Cale Makar were notably absent.
Additionally, inclusion of players like Morgan Rielly from the Toronto Maple Leafs stirred controversy, as many supporters believe that other underperforming players should have been placed lower on the hierarchy. The discourse has highlighted the subjective nature of rankings in the sport, where emotions often run high, and overlooked talent can lead to passionate discussions among fans.
This ranking predicament reinforces the importance of current play over past accolades, and as hockey enthusiasts gear up for the 2025 season, the perspectives on these defensemen will evolve as new talents rise and established veterans face the pressures of consistent play. As the debate continues, fans eagerly await the season to determine which players truly deserve their recognition on such lists.