## The next Malkin: Who will go down as this generation’s most underrated player? – Daily Faceoff
The NHL’s landscape is perpetually shifting, with new stars emerging every season. However, the debate surrounding the “most underrated player” is a timeless one, fuelled by contrasting perspectives on individual impact and overall recognition. While names like Auston Matthews and Connor McDavid hog headlines, other players silently deliver consistent high-level performance, flying under the radar despite their remarkable contributions.
But who stands out as this generation’s potential Evgeni Malkin? Malkin, throughout his illustrious career, consistently proved his ability to carry a team, leading his Pittsburgh Penguins to two Stanley Cup titles. Despite numerous accolades and individual brilliance, his recognition, particularly outside Pittsburgh, seemed to always fall short. The question remains: who could emulate Malkin’s legacy as the quiet powerhouse, the cornerstone of a contender, and yet, the player who remains somewhat underappreciated?
We delve into this intriguing question, considering five contenders:
**1. Mark Stone, Vegas Golden Knights**
Mark Stone, a steady presence with the Vegas Golden Knights, often stands in the shadows of elite talents like Jack Eichel and Alex Pietrangelo. However, Stone consistently drives play and consistently scores, anchoring Vegas’ top line. With an impressive knack for both playmaking and finishing, he embodies a two-way player, a cornerstone of the team’s structure. Despite leading Vegas’ forward core in most offensive metrics, Stone’s impact extends beyond individual statistics. He showcases a relentless work ethic, influencing teammates and contributing to the team’s overall success.
**2. Sebastian Aho, Carolina Hurricanes**
While the Hurricanes’ Sebastian Aho possesses a deadly shot and thrives as a key offensive playmaker, his contributions are often overlooked as the spotlight shines brighter on the dynamic duo of Andrei Svechnikov and Martin Necas. Aho stands out with his exceptional puck control and vision, skillfully dissecting defenses with pinpoint passes, leading to numerous scoring opportunities. His ability to thrive in the clutch makes him a consistent scoring threat, particularly in high-pressure situations. Aho’s consistent performance and the significant role he plays within the Carolina offense warrant further recognition and a higher spot in the NHL’s overall rankings.
**3. Cale Makar, Colorado Avalanche**
Despite earning accolades like the Norris Trophy and Conn Smythe Trophy, the Colorado Avalanche’s Cale Makar often goes underappreciated, especially among casual hockey fans. As a two-time Stanley Cup champion, he undeniably remains one of the NHL’s most impactful offensive defensemen. With unmatched skating skills and creative playmaking, Makar is a game-breaker, seamlessly blending puck-moving skills with a lethal scoring touch. While his scoring and assist totals are consistently remarkable, his influence transcends mere statistics. Makar consistently dictates the tempo and drives his team’s success with intelligent playmaking and relentless effort.
**4. Jonathan Huberdeau, Calgary Flames**
Jonathan Huberdeau’s performance last season might not have matched expectations after his move to Calgary. However, his impact on the ice cannot be overlooked. Known for his elite playmaking and vision, Huberdeau consistently sets up scoring chances for teammates. While he possesses a powerful shot and has demonstrated scoring potential, he primarily thrives as a creative offensive force. Despite not matching his high assist totals from his time in Florida, he remains a dangerous offensive threat capable of transforming a game with a single pass or individual play.
**5. Mika Zibanejad, New York Rangers**
Mika Zibanejad stands as a cornerstone of the New York Rangers’ forward corps, often underappreciated for his dominant performances. With an incredibly strong shot and elite puck handling skills, he demonstrates consistency in both offensive and defensive situations, effectively generating scoring chances and minimizing the opponent’s attack. While other names capture more attention on the Rangers’ roster, Zibanejad’s leadership and scoring contributions are essential to the team’s success.
Identifying the “next Malkin” remains a subjective process. While statistics are valuable tools for gauging a player’s contribution, ultimately, individual impact, intangible skills, and the overall team dynamic come into play. While many argue over who truly embodies the term “underrated”, these five contenders, each with their own unique skillsets and leadership qualities, possess the potential to be considered amongst the game’s most valuable players, often quietly leading their respective teams to success.
