As NHL 26 has revealed the best players at each position, we’ve talked about how those roles have evolved over time and their place in the modern game of hockey. But no position in the game today carries more responsibility than that of center. They’re expected to be complete players — dominating in the faceoff circle, driving possession, generating offense, and tracking back defensively. A strong center can tilt the ice every shift, dictating tempo and unlocking opportunities for their linemates. From generation scorers to two-way dynamos, the NHL’s best pivots remain the heartbeat of their teams.
That balance of responsibilities makes the position especially important in virtual form. Having an elite center means more than just extra offense, but it can mean better puck control, more opportunities in the transition game, and a stronger defensive backbone. NHL 26 recognizes this, hence why some of the best players in the game call the center position home.
So, who makes the list of the top 10 centers in NHL 26? Here they are!
The Top 10 Centers In NHL 26
- Connor McDavid – Edmonton Oilers (97 OVR)
- Nathan MacKinnon – Colorado Avalanche (96 OVR)
- Leon Draisaitl – Edmonton Oilers (96 OVR)
- Aleksander Barkov – Florida Panthers (95 OVR)
- Sidney Crosby – Pittsburgh Penguins (94 OVR)
- Jack Eichel – Vegas Golden Knights (94 OVR)
- Auston Matthews – Toronto Maple Leafs (94 OVR)
- Jack Hughes – New Jersey Devils (93 OVR)
- Brayden Point – Tampa Bay Lightning (92 OVR)
- Mark Scheifele – Winnipeg Jets (91 OVR)
Given that he is widely considered the greatest hockey player of his generation (and one of the greatest of all time), the Edmonton Oilers’ Connor McDavid easily takes the top center spot, boasting a 97 OVR rating. The dude is literally called “McJesus”, so that says all you need to know about how great he is. He’s still looking for his maiden Stanley Cup Trophy win, but even without the Mug, his skill and future legacy are undeniable. And he’s still only 28 years old.
Right behind him are Nathan MacKinnon and Leo Draisaitl, both of whom have consistently been in Hart Trophy conversation and remain game-breakers going into this new year. Alexander Barkov’s 95 OVR underscores his reputation as one of the NHL’s premier two-way forwards, while Sidney Crosby continues to defy Father Time, remaining one of the league’s best players at even 38 years of age. In fact, Crosby’s longevity is so impressive that you can make an argument for him being the GOAT.
