The 7 most surprising answers in the NHLPA Players’ Poll

The NHLPA players’ poll started last year and gave us a lot of insight into how players feel about each other and the second edition has brought along even more surprises.

There are some pretty predictable answers, like Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby ranking 1-2 in any type of forward ranking or last year’s Norris winner, Victor Hedman, being voted as the best defenceman. You can click here to see the full list of votes, but we thought we’d show you the most surprising results.

Barkov: 5^th Best Forward

Aleksander Barkov is often referred to as the most underrated player in the NHL (And he was voted that in this as well), but to see him ranked as the 5^th best is pretty surprising. That has him ahead of guys like Patrick Kane, Patrice Bergeron, Leon Draisaitl Alexander Ovechkin, Steven Stamkos, Mark Scheifele and Auston Matthews.

Kopitar: 5^th Most Difficult to Play Against

Honestly, what really surprises us here is that Barkov isn’t on the list. When you consider that he was voted in the top 5 forwards and that most people give him so much credit because he plays a full 200-foot game, you’d think he might crack the top 5. Kopitar is no slouch, but with LA struggling, it’s a little surprising to see.

Bergeron: 4^th in Best Player to Start a Franchise With

Patrice Bergeron is an unbelievable player, but it’s interesting to see that despite being 33 years old, people still choose him to start a franchise with over players like Nathan MacKinnon, Jack Eichel or Aleksander Barkov.

Spezza: 2^nd Best Future GM

Spezza must really analyze the game at another level to be on a list with these other players.

Vegas: 5^th Best Ice Quality in the League

Last year, they were not on the list and every other arena is from a pretty cold climate. We’ve heard about the Vegas fans, but who knew their ice was spectacular as well?

Tatar: Best Nickname in the League

Tuna. Tomas Tartar shares a nickname with Jim Halpert from the Office and we’re pretty sure that’s why this one won.

Players Vote Yes on Nickname Jerseys

Hockey players have some really fun nicknames, so we think this could be a great idea. We’re honestly just surprised that the players are into it, because they are not usually the most outgoing league.