ESPN has shared a debatable ranking at the start of the NHL playoffs, as analyst Neil Paine ranked Connor McDavid third among the top 50 players in the 2026 Stanley Cup postseason.

The list placed Nathan MacKinnon (127 points) first and Nikita Kucherov (130 points) second, using Goals Above Replacement and a three-year performance model.

McDavid’s placement is surprising, as the Edmonton Oilers captain led the league in scoring again with 138 points. He also played a role in nearly half of Edmonton’s goals this season. Despite that dominance, the model ranked him behind MacKinnon’s all-around impact and Kucherov’s consistent production.

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MacKinnon earned the top spot after a standout season with the Colorado Avalanche. His balanced offensive and defensive numbers boosted his GAR rating. Kucherov followed closely after another elite campaign with the Tampa Bay Lightning, ranked second in assists and points behind McDavid.

Why ESPN’s rank for Connor McDavid might be right?

The ranking reflects more than raw points. MacKinnon delivered strong two-way play and peak scoring form. Kucherov combined elite passing with efficient finishing. Both players also benefit from strong team structures that support their impact.

“When MacKinnon is on his game, almost nobody can match his combination of speed and skill…,” Paine wrote.

McDavid, despite his brilliance, plays on an Oilers side that has struggled defensively. Edmonton ranked near the bottom in goal prevention, while allowing 269 goals. That factor may have lowered his overall GAR value. The model rewards complete contributions, not just offensive output.

Why ESPN’s rank for Connor McDavid is still wrong?

Placing McDavid third feels debatable. His playoff record remains elite, with 150 points in 96 games. He also holds the record for most assists in a single postseason (34 assists). Only a few players, like Wayne Gretzky, used to control games the way he does at full speed.

McDavid’s ability to elevate teammates often outweighs structural flaws. In past runs, he carried Edmonton deep into the playoffs, twice (in 2024 and 2025) to the Stanley Cup finals. With that track record, many would still view him as the most dangerous player entering this postseason.

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As the playoffs unfold, the ranking will face real scrutiny. McDavid now has another chance to prove where he truly belongs.