2025-26 Ranking the NHL's Top 25 Centers

In this episode of Overtime Hockey Talk, we dive into our ranking of the top 25 centers in the NHL. We recap our recent lists of top goalies and defenders, and then debate the criteria for ranking centers, considering positions and fantasy value. We discuss notable players who just missed the cut, including Robert Thomas and Mika Zibanejad, and then count down our top 25 centers. Discussions include analysis of Sidney Crosby’s potential trade value, Auston Matthews' health concerns, and the breakout potential of Connor Bedard and Jack Hughes. We also preview our upcoming episodes focusing on right and left wingers. Follow us on X! @OTHockeyTalk 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:54 Criteria for Ranking Centers 05:16 Just Missed the List 07:09 Top 25 Centers: 25 to 21 13:57 Top 25 Centers: 20 to 16 19:31 Top 25 Centers: 15 to 11 27:14 Top 10 Centers: Mark Scheifele and Connor Bedard 30:17 Jack Hughes and Injury Concerns 31:10 Braden Point and Tampa Bay's Prospects 32:59 Austin Matthews: Talent and Health Issues 35:41 Jack Eichel's Potential Breakout 37:28 Sidney Crosby's Future and Trade Speculations 39:41 Top 4 Centers: Barkov, Draisaitl, McKinnon, and McDavid 47:48 Upcoming Episodes: Wingers and Team Breakdowns Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.