Hockey has always been a sport of intensity, grit, and loyalty, but with that passion comes a long list of players who’ve stirred the pot. Some became fan favorites despite their antics; others left lasting legacies filled with headlines, fines, and suspensions. Here are the seven most controversial players in NHL history, for reasons that go far beyond goals and assists.
Most controversial players in NHL history
7. Evander Kane
Kane’s resume includes gambling issues, bankruptcy, locker room friction, COVID-related suspensions, and messy off-ice disputes—including allegations from his ex-wife. Yet, he remains productive on the ice, making him one of the league’s most polarizing figures.
6. Marty McSorley
His 2000 assault on Donald Brashear with a two-handed stick swing was so severe it led to criminal charges and a year-long suspension, effectively ending his career. McSorley’s legacy is forever tied to one of hockey’s ugliest moments.
5. Claude Lemieux
Arguably the most hated man of the ’90s, Lemieux played the villain role to perfection. His dirty hit on Kris Draper during the 1996 playoffs led to years of bad blood between the Avalanche and Red Wings. And some of the most violent games in NHL history.
4. Patrick Kane
A generational talent with three Stanley Cups, Kane’s career has also faced off-ice turbulence. He’s been involved in several legal investigations, most notably a 2015 rape allegation (for which he was not charged). The incident cast a long shadow over his legacy.
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3. Tie Domi
The longtime Maple Leafs enforcer had a knack for fists and controversy. Whether it was punching fans, chirping opponents, or fighting seemingly every other night, Domi was the face of old-school goonery—and loved every minute of it.
2. Tom Wilson
Few players have stirred up modern NHL debates like Tom Wilson. Known for his physical style, Wilson has been suspended multiple times for dangerous hits, including a notorious 2021 incident involving Artemi Panarin. Capitals fans love him—others, not so much.
1. Sean Avery
A master of mind games, Sean Avery made headlines more for what he said than what he did with the puck. From his infamous “sloppy seconds” comment about ex-girlfriends to his on-ice harassment tactics (remember the Martin Brodeur screen?), Avery was a lightning rod for criticism and attention.
From legendary enforcers to headline-making scorers, controversy has never been far from the rink. Whether you loved or loathed them, these players changed how we talk about the NHL.
Did we miss someone? Drop your pick in the comments!
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