Emerging NHL Players Most Likely to Achieve Elite Status in 2016-17

The NHL season is past the quarter pole, and teams are jockeying for position. One of the prominent storylines this fall has to do with a large number of youngsters emerging as impact players.

It normally takes some time, but this year the sophomores are pushing the veterans and grabbing major headlines. Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers, who was hurt much of last year, leads the league in scoring and is already one of the best players in the game.

The rookies might be an even bigger story. Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Patrik Laine of the Winnipeg Jets are having an enormous impact on their teams and the race for the playoffs.

Here are five players who appear to be on the verge of becoming elite, winning season-ending awards and changing the standings almost single-handedly. Players are ranked based on current point totals.

5. Auston Matthews, C, Toronto Maple Leafs

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What Makes Him Special? Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs possesses a complete skill set—a highly unusual thing for such a young player. Matthews is a substantial offensive talent, but his overall play is what has Maple Leafs fans so excited.

Does He Have Another Gear? It is difficult to project him beyond what we see, but his effectiveness in all areas of the game suggest he will be an impact player in short order. It is important not to place too much pressure on him to emerge as a complete talent, but the elements are there and obvious.

What Awards Could He Win in the Future? Matthews has enough talent to be a future MVP, scoring leader or Selke winner as the league's best defensive forward. It is most unusual to see these skills this evident in a player with so little experience, but Matthews is a special player.

4. Patrik Laine, LW, Winnipeg Jets

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What Makes Him Special? Patrik Laine of the Winnipeg Jets is an impact rookie and an incredible scorer. His 15 goals in 26 games suggests he will soon emerge as an elite scorer—if he isn't already there. Laine's shot is a supreme offensive weapon,and he is the best shooter to enter the NHL since Alexander Ovechkin.

Does He Have Another Gear? He has only been in the league for 26 games, so we can't project him from here. That said, even if he never improves from this moment, Laine's impressive shot is going to keep him among league leaders in goals for many years to come.

What Awards Could He Win in the Future? Laine should be an annual threat for the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy as the NHL's leading goal scorer and has to be the favorite to win the Calder Trophy as Rookie of the Year in 2016-17.

3. Mark Scheifele, C, Winnipeg Jets

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What Makes Him Special? Mark Scheifele of the Winnipeg Jets is a complete center, whose considerable skills are useful in all three disciplines.

Does He Have Another Gear? He is showing signs of extra scoring ability this season, and some of it no doubt related to Patrik Laine's addition on his wing. Scheifele can score at even strength and has some power-play ability, so he could post a big scoring number if things continue as they are going currently.

What Awards Could He Win in the Future? Scheifele may be able to compete for most awards, including the Hart Trophy and the Selke Award. He is still adding elements to his game and has some two-way ability. In order for him to be considered a complete player, his faceoff percentage will need to improve. His possession number at even strength—via Stats.HockeyAnalysis.com—is solid and should be excellent when Laine matures.

2. Nikita Kucherov, RW, Tampa Bay Lightning

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What Makes Him Special? Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning possesses the complete arsenal of offensive weapons. A speedy winger who can play either side, he is an accurate shooter and an aggressive playmaker.

Does He Have Another Gear? In his three previous NHL seasons, Kucherov delivered point totals of 18, 64 and 66. Although he improved each season's totals, he is beyond a point-per-game and pushing for the scoring title. He does appear to have taken a step forward.

What Awards Could He Win in the Future? Scoring titles and MVP votes could be in Kucherov's future, as his dynamic offensive ability puts him in great position to compete for the Art Ross trophy annually for years to come. If this is a legitimate step forward, Kucherov could post over 90 points at age 23—making him an impact player at the highest level.

1. Connor McDavid, C, Edmonton Oilers

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What Makes Him Special? Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers is impossible to defend. He is the fastest player in the league and can make plays at speed—meaning defenders' best chance is to keep the puck away from him.

Does He Have Another Gear? He scored 48 points in 45 games as a rookie in 2015-16, but injuries robbed him of a chance to have a real impact on the season. This year, he leads the league in scoring and is leaving his teammates behind—as the club continues to look for suitable offensive linemates.

What Awards Could He Win in the Future? McDavid has a chance to win the Art Ross Trophy this season, as he already leads the league in points. He could have an outside chance at the Hart Trophy as league MVP, but the Oilers probably need to make the playoffs in order for him to be a strong contender. Chances are McDavid eventually wins both awards, potentially several times.