It was no secret that the Columbus Blue Jackets were in a desperate search for a number-one center this off-season.
The very wording of this suggests that being positioned as the first center on the depth chart does not automatically qualify you as a “number-one center”. In the end, it looks like the starting center for the Blue Jackets will be RJ Umberger—certainly not an elite center, but even more certainly, an upgrade.
There were lots of names thrown out during our quest. Lots of names that, in my opinion, were not worth the price we were willing to pay.
Patrick Marleau’s name, for example, was thrown in the mix. Talk was that we might be willing to offer our first pick overall in 2008 plus a player for Marleau.
I was horrified by that information. Marleau may be a competent player—but he is (in my eyes) by no means an elite center. In fact, as an interesting note, Marleau fared worse this season in point production than our late Sergei Fedorov.
More names were thrown around, and I was constantly underwhelmed at who we were “targeting.”
Then it hit me. As I started looking at all of the centers across the league, I realized that there weren’t be more than a handful who could truly be considered as elite, playmaking centers.
So, I give you my list—the true number one centers that are in the NHL.
Now, before anyone shouts, I had some flexible criteria but my only set rule was this—the player has to be in his prime or close right now. One past season of greatness or signs of greatness to come does not make you a CURRENT number-one center.
I tried to factor in the talent around the player, as well as the system that they are in. I think I’ve had some success, but this is subjective so take it with a grain of salt.
In no particular order:
Ryan Getzlaf, ANA
Marc Savard, BOS
Eric Staal, CAR
Brad Richards, DAL
Pavel Datsyuk, DET
Henrik Zetterberg*, DET
Anze Kopitar, LA
Jason Spezza, OTT
Olli Jokinen, PHX
Sidney Crosby, PIT
Evgeni Malkin, PIT
Joe Thornton, SJ
Vinny Lecavalier, TB
*I know Z often plays wing with Datsyuk, but if he were on any other team he’d be the number one center in a heartbeat.
So there you have it. 13 names, 11 teams. Again, it’s a subjective list. I only included those players who I considered ELITE. Think of it this way—if there were a league-wide draft, these would be the guys (at Center) that are picked first. These are the A+ players.
Again, there are lots of “A” players who can step in and play the top spot—but the Gomezes, Marleaus, and Brieres of the league would all take a back seat to any of these players.
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2 months ago
as much as i hate the leafs, where is mats sundin?
from 2 months ago
Sundin was a tough call to make. He has consistently put up decent points the past few years, but at 37 I just don't see him as an elite for next season.
2 months ago
agreed, dan
2 months ago
How about Scott Gomez?
from 2 months ago
I left off gomez because in my opinion he had one break-out season. He was brought to NY to center Jagr and couldn't do it. I believe that a true elite player can play with anybody
from 2 months ago
You have it the other way around. Gomez can center anyone, it was Jagr who couldn't be his winger.
from 2 months ago
I'm not saying he's not a good player - but if I'm looking for any center to add, I'd pick any of the above 13 over gomez
2 months ago
No Mike Richards?
from 2 months ago
I had Richards on my first pass - but i didn't think he was proven enough. True - he had a breakout season last year with 75 points, but that's up from 34 and 32. His was a tough call, but I had to stick by my one rule.
Another season with similar or better numbers would definitely solidify him though.
2 months ago
yah Mike Richards ahead of Marc Savard any day of the week, and half that list for that matter including the pair from Detroit.
I hate the Flyers, but this guy's the real deal - he took the #1 center from Briere in the playoffs and both players excelled for it.
Even as a Leaf fan I don't mind no Sundin, since he may not even play, and he's 37 - we are talking about a long term dance partner for Rick Nash here (or at least that's how you got started). 5 years ago and this list with no Mats and it'd be war!!!
nice Post though
2 months ago
I understand your feelings about RJ but I would have to disagree. Once you get to watch him play out there you will see his talent and abilities for seasons to come. Great article!
2 months ago
I'd swap Mike for Brad Richards and take Savard off the list. And no, Sundin doesn't isn't an elite centerman. But here's a name to add to the list after this coming season: Nicklas Backstrom.
from 2 months ago
Sundin isn't elite*
2 months ago
Elite and a #1 center are 2 different things. A team can have a #1 center that is very productive but he still may not be elite. Marleau may fall into that category.
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