Winning important face-offs, leading rushes up the ice, and setting up teammates are hallmarks of an elite center. NHL Network producers and analysts chose the top 20 centers in the League for a special program that premiered Sunday as the first in a nine-part series leading up to the regular season. Here is the list:
#NHLTopPlayers: Top 20 Centers
NHL Network reveals best of current crop
NHL Network unveils Top 20 Centers Right Now
McDavid edges out Crosby for top spot on list
Auston Matthews lands at No. 6 on the list
Discussing the qualities that make up a good center
Sebastian Aho checks in at No. 14 on the list
Jack Eichel takes the No. 15 spot on the list
Logan Couture comes in at No. 17 on the list