The 10 Most Valuable Players in the NHL

Where would the Devils be without him? For years, many believed Brodeur's success was a product of the trap and a solid defense in front of him. But after Scott Stevens, Ken Daneyko, and Brian Rafalski left town, Brodeur continued to flourish, evening set an NHL record for victories in a single season. 

Simply put, the Devils may not even be a playoff team without him—and are probably far worse than that.

On the ice, Brodeur is still just as good as ever.  He hasn't lost a step and does his job with a flair that only Patrick Roy could match.  He keeps nearing milestone after milestone, and will soon be the greatest goaltender in history, at least statistically.

6. Joe Thornton

Jumbo Joe is another star whose personality is something the NHL sorely needs.  A big, goofy character, Thornton has brought the Bay Area alive—as well as helped the Sharks' fan base grow.

Without him, the Sharks would probably be a playoff team, as they have tremendous goaltending in Nabokov and a deep talent pool.  One could also point to Thornton when talking about their recent playoff failures.

What he does bring to the Sharks, however, is one-of-a-kind playmaking skills.  He is arguably the game's best passer and hard to derail when he gets going. He is always a threat to win the Art Ross and Hart trophies as well.

5. Nicklas Lidstrom

Maybe the game's best leader, Lidstrom is approaching storied ground. He is a near-legend in Motown, and a great example of how the game should be played.  While not the most outspoken guy, he has displayed class and dignity in all aspects of his career.

Without Lidstrom, the Wings wouldn't be the dominant defensive team they are. Sure, they still have a tremendous cast but Lidstrom, the captain, makes things go.

On the ice, Lidstrom is the key cog.  He shuts down anyone who gets near him as efficiently as anyone can. He still quarterbacks the power play as well as anybody in the league, and hasn't shown signs of slowing down, despite his age (38).  

Lidstrom should add at least one more Norris Trophy (he has six already) to his collection before it's all said and done.

4. Dion Phaneuf

Though not as accomplished and perhaps not quite as complete as Lidstrom, Phaneuf is still an elite defender.  For the Flames, he provides great offensive ability with lethal hits and, with Jarome Iginla, is the face of the organization.  He also is one of a few players who is at the forefront of the NHL's youth movement.

Without Phaneuf patrolling the back end, Miikka Kiprusoff would be a lot busier, and his stats might be a little worse for wear.  The Flames' offensive struggles would also be further magnified without Phaneuf cleaning up the defensive end.

Dion brings "oomph" to the Flames.  He lays some of the most thunderous checks in hockey.  He's a quarterback of the power play, with his booming slapshot being the key.

Phaneuf's a great skater and can electrify a crowd. He's the complete defensive package and should dominate the league for many years.

3. Evgeni Malkin

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