Some NHL players leave behind a scorched-earth trail of drama, broken sticks, and bad blood. But every so often, there’s a guy who somehow wins over every fanbase he touches, whether it’s with heart, hustle, or just good vibes on and off the ice.
These are the rare few who didn’t just show up in different cities—they were embraced like hometown heroes. From grinders to superstars, here are 20 NHL players who were truly beloved everywhere they laced up their skates.
20. Brian Boyle
Boyle brought size, heart, and resilience to every team he played for. Fans always respected the way he battled through adversity and left it all on the ice.
19. Jason Pominville
Pominville had that quiet consistency that made him easy to root for. Whether in Buffalo or Minnesota, he was always appreciated for doing the little things right.
18. Martin St. Louis
St. Louis was the underdog story fans couldn’t get enough of. No matter where he played, his work ethic and skill made him a crowd favorite.
17. Alexander Radulov
Radulov played with a wild intensity that fans absolutely loved. His energy was infectious and he always seemed to give teams a much-needed spark.
16. Paul Kariya
Kariya’s elegance on the ice made him easy to cheer for. From Anaheim to Nashville, fans never forgot his class and skill.
15. Ray Whitney
Nicknamed “The Wizard,” Whitney always seemed to bring magic wherever he went. He had a knack for being productive and likable in equal measure.
14. Jarome Iginla
Iginla could score, fight, and lead, all while carrying himself with immense class. Every fanbase that got a taste of Iggy left wanting more.
13. Brandon Saad
Saad quietly became a fan favorite thanks to his reliable play and playoff contributions. No drama, just solid hockey that fans respected.
12. Brenden Morrow
Morrow was the ultimate heart-and-soul player who bled for his team. His grit and leadership made him beloved in every locker room and fan section.
11. Patric Hörnqvist
Hörnqvist was never the flashiest guy, but fans loved how he parked in front of the net and took a beating. He was pure chaos in the best way.
10. Mike Fisher
Fisher played with integrity and led by example, earning respect league-wide. Whether it was Ottawa or Nashville, fans knew they had a good one.
9. Matt Cullen
Cullen’s veteran presence and team-first mentality made him a fan favorite everywhere he went. His three Stanley Cups didn’t hurt either.
8. Curtis Joseph
“CuJo” was an electric presence in goal and a genuine personality off the ice. No matter the sweater, fans rallied behind him.
7. Ryan Callahan
Callahan gave maximum effort every shift, and fans took notice. His leadership and hustle translated across any logo he wore.
6. Marian Hossa
Hossa was the rare star who could blend in with any team and instantly become a fan favorite. His two-way game and professionalism made him a gem everywhere.
5. Shane Doan
Doan’s long tenure in Arizona overshadowed how well-liked he was across the league. When he played elsewhere, the love followed.
4. Joe Pavelski
Pavelski just has that captain energy no matter where he is. His clutch goals and quiet leadership made him a fan favorite from San Jose to Dallas.
3. Jaromir Jagr
Jagr played for almost half the league and somehow got standing ovations in every building. His legendary flow and all-time skill made him impossible not to love.
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2. P.K. Subban
Subban brought personality, passion, and philanthropy to every city he played in. Even if you weren’t a fan at first, he eventually won you over.
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1. Teemu Selanne
Selanne was the human highlight reel with the heart of a teddy bear. Whether it was Winnipeg, Anaheim, or anywhere in between, he was universally adored.
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