Hockey is a sport where skill meets sheer toughness, and some players take intimidation to another level. In the NHL, it’s not just about scoring goals or making plays—it’s about setting the tone with bone-crushing hits, relentless aggression, and an unmistakable presence on the ice. These are the enforcers, agitators, and bruisers who strike fear into opponents, earning reputations as the meanest players in the league.
From legendary tough guys to modern-day wrecking balls, this list dives into the NHL’s most feared and respected forces who redefine what it means to play with an edge.
15. Nikita Zadorov
Standing at 6’6″ and 248 lbs, Nikita Zadorov is an imposing presence on the ice. The Russian defenseman, currently playing for the Boston Bruins, is known for his hard-hitting style and physical play. In the 2023-24 season, Zadorov racked up 124 penalty minutes across 75 games, showcasing his aggressive approach to the game.
14. Josh Anderson
Josh Anderson, known as the “Powerhorse,” brings a physical presence to the Montreal Canadiens. While not traditionally considered mean, his aggressive forechecking and hard-hitting style can intimidate opponents. Anderson’s 6’3″ frame and willingness to drop the gloves make him a formidable force on the ice, though his recent struggles have somewhat diminished his impact.
13. Milan Lucic
Milan Lucic, known for his physical play and intimidating presence, has been a force in the NHL since 2007. With 1,301 penalty minutes in 1,177 games, Lucic’s aggressive style has made him a feared opponent. His combination of scoring ability (233 goals, 353 assists) and toughness has cemented his reputation as one of the league’s meanest players.
12. Pat Maroon
Known as “Big Rig,” Pat Maroon brings a physical presence to the ice. In the 2024-25 season with the Chicago Blackhawks, he’s maintained his reputation for toughness, accumulating 71 penalty minutes in 49 games. Maroon’s career spans over 829 NHL games, showcasing his durability and consistent physical play.
11. Antoine Roussel
Antoine Roussel, known for his agitating style, has earned a reputation as one of the NHL’s most irritating players. The French-Canadian forward combines physical play with offensive contributions, making him a valuable asset. Roussel’s ability to get under opponents’ skin while contributing to the scoresheet makes him a formidable presence on the ice.
10. Zack Kassian
Known for his physical play and willingness to drop the gloves, Zack Kassian was a feared enforcer during his NHL career. He delivered over 858 hits in 412 games with the Edmonton Oilers alone. Kassian’s tough style and ability to protect star players made him a fan favorite before his retirement in 2023.
9. Corey Perry
Corey Perry, nicknamed “The Worm,” is known for his aggressive style and nasty stick work. The former Anaheim Ducks star has a history of controversial hits and suspensions, including a five-game ban for elbowing Ryan Ellis in the 2020 Winter Classic. Despite his reputation, Perry’s skill and leadership have kept him relevant in the NHL for nearly two decades.
8. Brendan Gallagher
Known for his aggressive forechecking and relentless style, Brendan Gallagher is a thorn in opponents’ sides. The Montreal Canadiens’ winger plays with a chip on his shoulder, constantly agitating opponents and drawing penalties. Despite his small stature (5’9″), Gallagher fearlessly battles in front of the net and along the boards, earning a reputation as one of the NHL’s most irritating players.
7. Ryan Reaves
Ryan Reaves, currently with the Toronto Maple Leafs, is known for his physical play and fighting ability. While his role as an enforcer has diminished in recent years, Reaves still brings a tough presence to the ice. His reputation as one of the NHL’s most intimidating players persists, though his on-ice impact has waned.
6. Evander Kane
Known for his aggressive play and off-ice controversies, Evander Kane has a reputation for being one of the NHL’s most polarizing figures. His physical style and willingness to drop the gloves have earned him both admirers and critics. In late 2024 and early 2025, Kane has undergone multiple surgeries and has been put on long-term reserve.
5. Radko Gudas
Known for his aggressive style and bone-crushing hits, Radko Gudas has earned a reputation as one of the NHL’s most intimidating defensemen. With 971 penalty minutes in 748 career games, Gudas consistently ranks among league leaders in hits. His physical play often toes the line, resulting in multiple suspensions throughout his career.
4. Nazem Kadri
Kadri’s reputation as a “mean” player stems from his physical style and history of suspensions. However, he’s evolved into a skilled forward who can agitate opponents while contributing offensively. In 2022, he overcame racial abuse to help Colorado win the Stanley Cup, showcasing his resilience and talent.
3. Tom Wilson
Tom Wilson of the Washington Capitals is known for his physical play and controversial hits. While he’s evolved into a skilled power forward, scoring 20+ goals in recent seasons, he still plays with an edge that infuriates opponents. Wilson’s combination of size, speed, and scoring ability makes him one of the NHL’s most impactful – and feared – players.
2. Matthew Tkachuk
Matthew Tkachuk, the Florida Panthers’ alternate captain, is known for his aggressive play and ability to get under opponents’ skin. With 92 penalty minutes in the 2023-24 season, Tkachuk combines skill and grit, making him one of the NHL’s most formidable power forwards. His recent Stanley Cup win solidifies his status as a top player.
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1. Brad Marchand
Brad Marchand, the Boston Bruins’ left winger, tops the list of meanest NHL players. Known for his aggressive style and controversial tactics, Marchand has earned the nickname “Little Ball of Hate.” His on-ice antics, including licking opponents and low hits, have resulted in numerous suspensions and fines throughout his career.
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