Wayne Gretzky

In 1980, Wayne Gretzky became the first player to score 50 goals in one season. He went on to win four consecutive scoring titles, three Art Ross Trophies, two Hart Trophies, and an Olympic Gold Medal. His career totals include 891 goals and 1,963 assists for 2,964 points.

Mario Lemieux

It’s hard to compare these two players because they were so different. While Gretzky played center, Lemieux played left wing. They also had very different styles of play. Lemieux was more aggressive than Gretzky, who preferred to pass the puck. However, both men were considered among the greatest hockey players ever.

Gordie Howe

Both men won four Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings. In addition, Lemieux won three scoring titles while playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins. He also led the league in goals twice. Meanwhile, Howe won five scoring titles while playing for his hometown team, the Hartford Whalers. He also scored 50 goals once and set an NHL record by scoring seven points in one game.

Bobby Orr

Howe retired as the NHL’s career leader in goals (1,767), assists (2,857) and points (4,634). He also holds the record for most regular season games played (1,767) and playoff games played (715). Howe was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983.

Sidney Crosby

In terms of pure talent, there is no question who is better than the other. However, when comparing them based on longevity, Gretzky has been playing longer than Crosby. While he only had one more year of eligibility, he still managed to win the Hart Trophy as league MVP twice and the Art Ross Trophy as scoring champion once.