NHL
HomeScoresRumorsHighlights
Featured Video
🚨Sabres Force Game 7 vs. Habs

NHL Power Rankings: Ranking the Top Lines on All 30 Teams

Jason HitelmanJun 7, 2018

The top line on an NHL team should be the club's most dangerous offensive threat.

However, goals and assists are not the only important stats in hockey—there are two ends to the ice surface.

A well-rounded line should both accumulate points and be on the positive side of the plus/minus category.

I've compiled a list of every first line in the NHL. I've included the total amount of points scored by the lines, the lines' cumulative plus/minus, as well as a combination of the two, which is my basis for ranking them. 

30. Ottawa Senators

1 of 30
OTTAWA, CANADA - MARCH 04:  Jason Spezza #19 of the Ottawa Senators cuts across the blueline with the puck while being defended against by Steve Eminger #44 of the New York Rangers in a game at Scotiabank Place on March 4, 2011 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
OTTAWA, CANADA - MARCH 04: Jason Spezza #19 of the Ottawa Senators cuts across the blueline with the puck while being defended against by Steve Eminger #44 of the New York Rangers in a game at Scotiabank Place on March 4, 2011 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

LW Colin Greening: (2G, 5A, 7 points)

C Jason Spezza: (15G, 26A, 41 points)

RW Bobby Butler: (7G, 4A, 11 points)

Total points: 59

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-28

Combined points: 32

The Ottawa Senators lineup has been depleted. Daniel Alfredsson and Milan Michalek are injured, and most of the other top-line forwards were traded away for draft picks. This leaves Jason Spezza to play with Greening and Butler, two call-ups. It's been a very difficult year for the team.

29. Edmonton Oilers

2 of 30
EDMONTON, CANADA - OCTOBER 21: Magnus Paajarvi #91, Jordan Eberle #14 of the Edmonton Oilers skates against the Minnesota Wild on October 21, 2010 at Rexall Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Dale MacMillan/Getty Images)
EDMONTON, CANADA - OCTOBER 21: Magnus Paajarvi #91, Jordan Eberle #14 of the Edmonton Oilers skates against the Minnesota Wild on October 21, 2010 at Rexall Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Dale MacMillan/Getty Images)

LW Magnus Paajarvi: (11G, 16A, 27 points)

C Shawn Horcoff: (9G, 18A, 27 points)

RW Jordan Eberle: (15G, 21A, 36 points)

Total points: 90

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-20

Combined points: 70

After Dustin Penner was traded and Ales Hemsky and Taylor Hall went down to injuries, the Edmonton Oilers were left without their three top scorers. Shawn Horcoff was performing very well up until he was injured—again. Paajarvi and Eberle are two promising rookies. This makeshift line was not ideal, but the Oilers were forced to roll with the punches. Look for Sam Gagner to replace Horcoff.

28. New York Rangers

3 of 30
LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 02:  Marian Gaborik #10 of the New York Rangers celebrates his goal with Vinny Prospal #20 and Erik Christensen #26 in front of Jonathan Quick #32 of the Los Angeles Kings during the third period at the Staples Center on Februar
LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 02: Marian Gaborik #10 of the New York Rangers celebrates his goal with Vinny Prospal #20 and Erik Christensen #26 in front of Jonathan Quick #32 of the Los Angeles Kings during the third period at the Staples Center on Februar

LW Vinny Prospal: (4G, 10A, 14 points)

C Erik Christensen: (11G, 12A, 23 points)

RW Marian Gaborik: (20G, 22A, 42 points)

Total points: 79

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-10

Combined points: 89

The New York Rangers’ entire first line has missed some time this season due to injury. Now healthy, Marian Gaborik is trying to get his game going after underachieving, but Erik Christensen doesn’t seem to fit the top-line center profile.  Thankfully for Rangers fans, the second line is picking up the slack.

TOP NEWS

NHL Mock Draft
Kucherov Landing Spots

27. New Jersey Devils

4 of 30
NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 08:  Zach Boychuk #11 of the Carolina Hurricanes tries to defend against Ilya Kovalchuk #17 and Travis Zajac #19 of the New Jersey Devils during the second period of an NHL hockey game at the Prudential Center on February 8, 2011 in
NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 08: Zach Boychuk #11 of the Carolina Hurricanes tries to defend against Ilya Kovalchuk #17 and Travis Zajac #19 of the New Jersey Devils during the second period of an NHL hockey game at the Prudential Center on February 8, 2011 in

LW Ilya Kovalchuk: (26G, 25A, 51 points)

C Travis Zajac: (13G, 28A, 41 points)

RW Nick Palmieri: (6G, 5A, 11 points)

Total points: 103

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-11

Combined points: 92

After a disastrous start to the 2010-2011 season, Ilya Kovalchuk and the rest of the New Jersey Devils picked up their game thanks, in part, to coach Jacques Lemaire. Kovalchuk has been on a tear of late and one can only imagine how the Devils top line would be faring if Zach Parise hadn’t gotten hurt.

26. Colorado Avalanche

5 of 30
DENVER, CO - MARCH 11:  David Jones #54 of the Colorado Avalanche celebrates his second period goal with teammates Paul Stastny #26 and Erik Johnson #6 against the Anaheim Ducks during NHL action at the Pepsi Center on March 11, 2011 in Denver, Colorado.
DENVER, CO - MARCH 11: David Jones #54 of the Colorado Avalanche celebrates his second period goal with teammates Paul Stastny #26 and Erik Johnson #6 against the Anaheim Ducks during NHL action at the Pepsi Center on March 11, 2011 in Denver, Colorado.

LW Kevin Porter: (12G, 8A, 20 points)

C Paul Stastny: (20G, 33A, 53 points)

RW David Jones: (24G, 16A, 40 points)

Total points: 113

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-12

Combined points: 101

The whole Avalanche forward structure was thrown for a loop when Chris Stewart was traded to the St. Louis Blues. Paul Stastny is currently listed as day-to-day with a back injury, and he certainly could not have been happy when the team’s most prolific scorer was sent off. The Avs will need some time to rebuild.

25. Florida Panthers

6 of 30
SUNRISE, FL - FEBRUARY 16: Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky #35 of the Philadelphia Flyers stops a late third period attempt by Stephen Weiss #9 of the Florida Panthers on February 16, 2011 at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Florida. The Flyers defeated th
SUNRISE, FL - FEBRUARY 16: Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky #35 of the Philadelphia Flyers stops a late third period attempt by Stephen Weiss #9 of the Florida Panthers on February 16, 2011 at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Florida. The Flyers defeated th

LW Sergei Samsonov: (13G, 22A, 35 points)

C Stephen Weiss: (21G, 29A, 50 points)

RW Niclas Bergfors: (12G, 23A, 35 points)

Total points: 120

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-8

Combined points: 112

The recently formed Panthers first line will take the opportunity they have for the remainder of the season. The most important aspect is that Stephen Weiss and Niclas Bergfors develop some chemistry. Bergfors recently scored his first as a member of the Panthers, ending a slump. Their defensive-game is pretty bad and Samsonov probably won’t get re-signed at season’s end, but for now, the Panthers will have to make due.

24. Minnesota Wild

7 of 30
SAN JOSE, CA - JANUARY 22: Mikko Koivu #9 of the Minnesota Wild is congratulated by Antti Miettinen #20 and Brent Burns #8 after he scored his second goal of the night against the San Jose Sharks at HP Pavilion on January 22, 2011 in San Jose, California.
SAN JOSE, CA - JANUARY 22: Mikko Koivu #9 of the Minnesota Wild is congratulated by Antti Miettinen #20 and Brent Burns #8 after he scored his second goal of the night against the San Jose Sharks at HP Pavilion on January 22, 2011 in San Jose, California.

LW Andrew Brunette: (17G, 22A, 39 points)

C Mikko Koivu: (16G, 35A, 51 points)

RW Antti Miettinen: (11G, 19A, 30 points)

Total points: 120

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-4

Combined points: 116

Mikko Koivu has just returned to the lineup after being sidelined for 11 games with a broken finger. It has been an injury-plagued, disappointing season for the Wild’s first line. The team, in general, lacks punch, an issue that may need to be addressed in the offseason.

23. Buffalo Sabres

8 of 30
BUFFALO, NY - JANUARY 18: Thomas Vanek #26 and Jason Pominville #29 of the Buffalo Sabres skate against Tomas Plekanec #14  against the Montreal Canadiens at HSBC Arena on January 18, 2011 in Buffalo, New York. Buffalo won 2-1 in overtime.  (Photo by Rick
BUFFALO, NY - JANUARY 18: Thomas Vanek #26 and Jason Pominville #29 of the Buffalo Sabres skate against Tomas Plekanec #14 against the Montreal Canadiens at HSBC Arena on January 18, 2011 in Buffalo, New York. Buffalo won 2-1 in overtime. (Photo by Rick

LW Thomas Vanek: (24G, 34A, 58 points)

 C Jochen Hecht: (12G, 16A, 32 points)

RW Jason Pominville: (17G, 21A, 38 points)

Total points: 128

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-8

Combined points: 120

It’s been a difficult season for the Sabres as far as injuries are concerned. Jason Pominville missed some time and hampered the Sabres chances at being a strong team all season long. Vanek is a very streaky player. It’s difficult to rank the line among the league’s best, especially since Hecht’s injury on Mar. 13 adds some unwanted questions.

22. New York Islanders

9 of 30
NEWARK, NJ - MARCH 12:  John Tavares #91 of the New York Islanders celebrates his second period goal with teammates Matt Moulson #26 and PA Parenteau #15 as Dainius Zubrus #8 of the New Jersey Devils skates away dejected on March 12, 2011 at the Prudentia
NEWARK, NJ - MARCH 12: John Tavares #91 of the New York Islanders celebrates his second period goal with teammates Matt Moulson #26 and PA Parenteau #15 as Dainius Zubrus #8 of the New Jersey Devils skates away dejected on March 12, 2011 at the Prudentia

LW Matt Moulson: (30G, 18A, 48 points)

C John Tavares: (26G, 34A, 60 points)

RW P.A. Parenteau: (17G, 30A, 47 points)

Total points: 155

Cumulative plus/minus; Minus-32

Combined points: 123

The New York Islanders first line does not lack offensive firepower, but some work must be done on their defensive game. If they can learn to come back on defense, they may be classed as one of the league’s best lines.

21. Pittsburgh Penguins

10 of 30
OTTAWA, CANADA - MARCH 15:  Zbynek Michalek #4;Chris Kunitz #14;Tyler Kennedy #48 and Jordan Staal #11 of the Pittsburgh Penguins celebrate a goal while Chris Phillips #4 of the Ottawa Senators skates away dejectedly in a game at Scotiabank Place on March
OTTAWA, CANADA - MARCH 15: Zbynek Michalek #4;Chris Kunitz #14;Tyler Kennedy #48 and Jordan Staal #11 of the Pittsburgh Penguins celebrate a goal while Chris Phillips #4 of the Ottawa Senators skates away dejectedly in a game at Scotiabank Place on March

LW Chris Kunitz: (20G, 21A, 41 points)

C Jordan Staal: (9G, 13A, 22 points)

RW Tyler Kennedy: (16G, 22A, 38 points)

Total points: 101

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-25

Combined points: 126

Jordan Staal is a great two-way center, but being the top-line center of the Pittsburgh Penguins may be too much to ask of him. Sidney Crosby skated for the first time since his injury this week. I’m sure that Staal and the Pens cannot wait for the return of arguably the best player in the game. Crosby is obviously a difference-maker. His line immediately becomes one of the league’s best—regardless of his linemates.

20. Nashville Predators

11 of 30
SAN JOSE, CA - MARCH 8: Joel Ward #29 of the Nashville Predators celebrates with teammates Ryan Suter #20, Shea Weber #6, and David Legwand #11 after scoring a power play goal against the San Jose Sharks in the first period of an NHL hockey game at the HP
SAN JOSE, CA - MARCH 8: Joel Ward #29 of the Nashville Predators celebrates with teammates Ryan Suter #20, Shea Weber #6, and David Legwand #11 after scoring a power play goal against the San Jose Sharks in the first period of an NHL hockey game at the HP

LW Marin Erat: (13G, 30A, 43 points)

C David Legwand: (12G, 22A, 34 points)

RW Joel Ward: (10G, 17A, 27 points)

Total points: 104

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-23

Combined points: 127

The Nashville Predators have always been a “defense-first” based team. The team’s first line doesn’t really stray from the team’s mantra.

19. Carolina Hurricanes

12 of 30
NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 16:  Eric Staal #12 of the Carolina Hurricanes skates against the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center on February 16, 2011 in Newark, New Jersey.  (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 16: Eric Staal #12 of the Carolina Hurricanes skates against the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center on February 16, 2011 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

LW Cory Stillman: (9G, 20A, 29 points)

C Eric Staal: (29G, 34A, 63 points)

RW Tuomo Ruutu: (17G, 30A, 47 points)

Total points: 139

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-13

Combined points: 126

In reacquiring Cory Stillman, the Carolina Hurricanes brought back an old linemate of Eric Staal’s. The two seem to be meshing while Tuomo Ruutu is putting together a pretty good year. Any line that Staal is playing center on is worth noting.

18. Atlanta Thrashers

13 of 30
BUFFALO, NY - FEBRUARY 23: Ryan Miller #30 and Tyler Myers #57 of the Buffalo Sabres defend    against Andrew Ladd #16 and Brian Little #10 of the Atlanta Thrashers at HSBC Arena on February 23, 2011 in Buffalo, New York. Buffalo won 4-1.  (Photo by Rick
BUFFALO, NY - FEBRUARY 23: Ryan Miller #30 and Tyler Myers #57 of the Buffalo Sabres defend against Andrew Ladd #16 and Brian Little #10 of the Atlanta Thrashers at HSBC Arena on February 23, 2011 in Buffalo, New York. Buffalo won 4-1. (Photo by Rick

LW Andrew Ladd: (26G, 27A, 53 points)

C Bryan Little: (15G, 27A, 42 points)

RW Blake Wheeler: (15G, 21A, 36 points)

Total points: 131

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-10

Combined points: 141

Blake Wheeler has done a fine job in adjusting since coming over from the Boston Bruins just before the trade deadline, registering eight points in 10 games. Although the general play of the team seems to be plummeting at the moment, the top line shows promise and may improve over time.

17. Montreal Canadiens

14 of 30
MONTREAL- MAY 10:  Mike Cammalleri #13 of the Montreal Canadiens celebrates his second-period goal with teammate Tomas Plekanec #14 in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Pittsburgh Penguins  during the 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs
MONTREAL- MAY 10: Mike Cammalleri #13 of the Montreal Canadiens celebrates his second-period goal with teammate Tomas Plekanec #14 in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs

LW Michael Cammalleri: (16G, 22A, 38 points)

C Tomas Plekanec: (21G, 32A, 53 points)

RW Jeff Halpern: (11G, 14A, 25 points)

Total points: 116

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-30

Combined points: 146

Tomas Plekanec and Mike Cammalleri have been very inconsistent this season, but they exhibited flashes of brilliance in their game on Mar. 12 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Both Plekanec and Halpern suffered undisclosed lower-body injuries on Mar. 15 against the Washington Capitals. If they are able to get back into games, let’s see if the line can play up to their potential down the stretch and into the playoffs.

16. Phoenix Coyotes

15 of 30
GLENDALE, AZ - MARCH 10:  Eric Belanger #20 of the Phoenix Coyotes celebrates with Shane Doan #19 after Belanger scored a third period goal against the Calgary Flames during the NHL game at Jobing.com Arena on March 10, 2011 in Glendale, Arizona. The Coyo
GLENDALE, AZ - MARCH 10: Eric Belanger #20 of the Phoenix Coyotes celebrates with Shane Doan #19 after Belanger scored a third period goal against the Calgary Flames during the NHL game at Jobing.com Arena on March 10, 2011 in Glendale, Arizona. The Coyo

LW Lauri Korpikoski: (17G, 19A, 36 points)

C Eric Belanger: (12G, 21A, 33 points)

RW Shane Doan: (17G, 36A, 53 points)

Total points: 122

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-26

Combined points: 146

Shane Doan attempts to lead by example on this line, putting together another solid two-way campaign. It’s difficult to ask for huge numbers on a defensive-minded team, and this line is doing what it can. The Coyotes’ system is working and the team is succeeding.

15. St. Louis Blues

16 of 30
ST. LOUIS, MO - MARCH 12: Alex Pietrangelo #27 and David Backes #42 both of the St. Louis Blues defend against Henrik Zetterberg #40 of the Detroit Red Wings  at the Scottrade Center on March 12, 2011 in St. Louis, Missouri.  (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Get
ST. LOUIS, MO - MARCH 12: Alex Pietrangelo #27 and David Backes #42 both of the St. Louis Blues defend against Henrik Zetterberg #40 of the Detroit Red Wings at the Scottrade Center on March 12, 2011 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Get

LW Andy McDonald: (17G, 23A, 40 points)

C David Backes: (25G, 27A, 52 points)

RW Matt D'Agostini: (17G, 19A, 36 points)

Total points: 128

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-31

Combined points: 159

David Backes is one of the best two-way centers in the NHL. The gritty Backes is really helping Matt D’Agostini develop on his line and had Andy McDonald not missed time due to a concussion, we probably would have seen career numbers from him.

14. San Jose Sharks

17 of 30
CHICAGO - MAY 21:  (L-R) Joe Thornton #19, Dany Heatley #15, Patrick Marleau #12 and Dan Boyle #12 of the San Jose Sharks react after the second period goal by Marleau while taking on the Chicago Blackhawks in Game Three of the Western Conference Finals d
CHICAGO - MAY 21: (L-R) Joe Thornton #19, Dany Heatley #15, Patrick Marleau #12 and Dan Boyle #12 of the San Jose Sharks react after the second period goal by Marleau while taking on the Chicago Blackhawks in Game Three of the Western Conference Finals d

LW Patrick Marleau: (28G, 29A, 57 points)

C Joe Thornton: (19G, 40A, 59 points)

RW Dany Heatley: (24G, 34A, 58 points)

Total points: 174

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-12

Combined points: 162

Although they don’t always play together, it only made sense to group the “Big Three” as the Sharks top line. After a very disappointing start to the season, Thornton, Marleau and Heatley all seem to be finding their games at the right time. Hopefully the resurgence of the line can carry through into the playoffs.

13. Columbus Blue Jackets

18 of 30
COLUMBUS, OH - OCTOBER 20: Rick Nash #61 of the Columbus Blue Jackets is congratulated by Antoine Vermette #50 after a second period goal against the Anaheim Ducks on October 20, 2010 at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio.  (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty
COLUMBUS, OH - OCTOBER 20: Rick Nash #61 of the Columbus Blue Jackets is congratulated by Antoine Vermette #50 after a second period goal against the Anaheim Ducks on October 20, 2010 at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty

LW Rick Nash: (29G, 32A, 61 points)

C Antoine Vermette: (16G, 24A, 40 points)

RW Jakub Voracek: (14G, 32A, 46 points)

Total points: 147

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-15

Combined points: 162

This line really meshes well. Although Antoine Vermette may not be the flashiest center man, he gets the job done with an established superstar in Rick Nash and an emerging, albeit late-blooming, talent in Jake Voracek.

12. Toronto Maple Leafs

19 of 30
UNIONDALE, NY - MARCH 08:  Clarke MacArthur #16 of the Toronto Maple Leafs skates against the New York Islanders at the Nassau Coliseum on March 8, 2011 in Uniondale, New York. The Islanders defeated the Leafs 4-3 in overtime.  (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Get
UNIONDALE, NY - MARCH 08: Clarke MacArthur #16 of the Toronto Maple Leafs skates against the New York Islanders at the Nassau Coliseum on March 8, 2011 in Uniondale, New York. The Islanders defeated the Leafs 4-3 in overtime. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Get

LW Clarke MacArthur: (20G, 32A, 52 points)

C Mikhail Grabovski: (27G, 26A, 53 points)

RW Nikolai Kulemin: (26G, 24A, 50 points)

Total points: 155

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-10

Combined points: 165

As one of the league’s biggest surprises, the Toronto Maple Leafs top line has really been carrying the load this year. The line worked as soon as the newly-acquired Clarke MacArthur was placed on it. Brian Burke will hopefully look to find a center to complement his superstar, Phil Kessel, this offseason, as Tyler Bozak just isn’t working out.

11. Calgary Flames

20 of 30
NASHVILLE, TN - FEBRUARY 01:  Jarome Iginla #12 and Alex Tanguay #40 of the Calgary Flames celebrate after a goal against the Nashville Predatorson February 1, 2011 at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.  (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Image
NASHVILLE, TN - FEBRUARY 01: Jarome Iginla #12 and Alex Tanguay #40 of the Calgary Flames celebrate after a goal against the Nashville Predatorson February 1, 2011 at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Image

LW Alex Tanguay: (19G, 38A, 57 points)

C David Moss: (17G, 13A, 30 points)

RW Jarome Iginla: (32G, 38A, 70 points)

Total points: 157

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-10

Combined points: 167

Jarome Iginla is one of the best players in the NHL. Alex Tanguay fits much better with the Flames than he did with the Tampa Bay Lightning last season. David Moss was doing a good job at replacing the injured Brendan Morrison at center but took a puck off of the foot and is listed as day-to-day.

10. Dallas Stars

21 of 30
DALLAS - NOVEMBER 04: Left wing Loui Eriksson #21 of the Dallas Stars celebrates his goal with Brad Richards #91 against the Calgary Flames at American Airlines Center on November 4, 2009 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
DALLAS - NOVEMBER 04: Left wing Loui Eriksson #21 of the Dallas Stars celebrates his goal with Brad Richards #91 against the Calgary Flames at American Airlines Center on November 4, 2009 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

LW Jamie Benn: (21G, 26A, 47 points)

C Brad Richards: (24G, 42A, 66 points)

RW Loui Eriksson: (23G, 39A, 62 points)

Total points: 175

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-19

Combined points: 194

It was inevitable that the up-and-coming Jamie Benn would be placed on the Richards line. Coach Marc Crawford’s experiment with 20-year-old former first-rounder Tomas Vincour didn’t quite work. Back before Richards’ concussion and James Neal was traded, this line was one of the biggest offensive threats in the NHL. Hopefully Benn can step in and reignite the line.

9. Philadelphia Flyers

22 of 30
CHICAGO - MAY 29:  (C) Ville Leino #22 of the Philadelphia Flyers celebrates with teammates Scott Hartnell #19 and Danny Briere #48 after scoring a first period goal against the Chicago Blackhawks in Game One of the 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Final at the Unite
CHICAGO - MAY 29: (C) Ville Leino #22 of the Philadelphia Flyers celebrates with teammates Scott Hartnell #19 and Danny Briere #48 after scoring a first period goal against the Chicago Blackhawks in Game One of the 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Final at the Unite

LW Scott Hartnell: (20G, 23A, 43 points)

C Danny Briere: (31G, 28A, 59 points)

RW Ville Leino: (17G, 31A, 48 points)

Total points: 150

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-47

Combined points: 197

The Philadelphia Flyers top line has clicked all season long. Ville Leino has emerged as a first-line forward, demolishing his previous point total of 11. Danny Briere is one goal away from his fourth career 30-goal season. This is one of three Flyers’ lines that are scoring on a consistent basis.

8. Anaheim Ducks

23 of 30
GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 27:  Bobby Ryan #9 of the Anaheim Ducks celebrates with teammates (L-R) Corey Perry #10, Paul Mara #23, Ryan Getzlaf #15 and Cam Fowler #4 after Ryan scored a second period goal against goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov #30 of the Phoenix
GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 27: Bobby Ryan #9 of the Anaheim Ducks celebrates with teammates (L-R) Corey Perry #10, Paul Mara #23, Ryan Getzlaf #15 and Cam Fowler #4 after Ryan scored a second period goal against goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov #30 of the Phoenix

LW Bobby Ryan: (32G, 28A, 60 points)

C Ryan Getzlaf: (17G, 40A, 57 points)

RW Corey Perry: (36G, 39A, 75 points)

Total points: 192

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-7

Combined points: 199

As usual, the Anaheim Ducks top line is one of the most dangerous in hockey. All three members of the line are the perfect balance between size and skill.

7. Detroit Red Wings

24 of 30
DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 08: Pavel Datsyuk #13 of the Detroit Red Wings celebrates his short handed goal against the Nashville Predators along with Henrik Zetterberg #40 at the Joe Louis Arena on December 8, 2010 in Detroit, Michigan. The Predators defeated
DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 08: Pavel Datsyuk #13 of the Detroit Red Wings celebrates his short handed goal against the Nashville Predators along with Henrik Zetterberg #40 at the Joe Louis Arena on December 8, 2010 in Detroit, Michigan. The Predators defeated

LW Henrik Zetterberg: (20G, 51A, 71 points)

C Pavel Datsyuk: (22G, 35A, 57 points)

RW Johan Franzen: (27G, 24A, 51 points)

Total points: 179

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-22

Combined points: 201

Zetterberg and Datsyuk are two of the league’s elite forwards. Throwing Johan Franzen—a pure goal-scorer—on the line adds a third element which becomes very difficult to defend.

6. Washington Capitals

25 of 30
WASHINGTON - APRIL 17: Nicklas Backstrom #19 (R) of the Washington Capitals scores in overtime and is joined by Mike Knuble #22 (L) and Alex Ovechkin #8 (C) to defeat the Montreal Canadiens 6-5  in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during t
WASHINGTON - APRIL 17: Nicklas Backstrom #19 (R) of the Washington Capitals scores in overtime and is joined by Mike Knuble #22 (L) and Alex Ovechkin #8 (C) to defeat the Montreal Canadiens 6-5 in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during t

LW Alex Ovechkin: (29G, 46A, 75 points)

C Nicklas Backstrom: (17G, 38A, 55 points)

RW Mike Knuble: (17G, 13A, 30 points)

Total points: 160

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-44

Combined points: 204

Even though Marcus Johansson is doing a formidable job as the Washington Capitals first-line center, he is sure to lose his job once Nick Backstrom returns from injury. Alex Ovechkin must smell the playoffs, because he is leading his team with great play on each part of the ice. The Caps top line is overcoming a slow start to be a force to be reckoned with late in the season.

5. Los Angeles Kings

26 of 30
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 7:  Justin Williams #14 (R) of the Los Angeles Kings celebrates with Anze Kopitar #11 (C) and Dustin Penner #25 after his second period goal against the Dallas Stars at Staples Center on March 7, 2011 in Los Angeles, California.
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 7: Justin Williams #14 (R) of the Los Angeles Kings celebrates with Anze Kopitar #11 (C) and Dustin Penner #25 after his second period goal against the Dallas Stars at Staples Center on March 7, 2011 in Los Angeles, California.

LW Dustin Penner: (23G, 22A, 45 points)

C Anze Kopitar: (25G, 47A, 72 points)

RW Justin Williams: (22G, 35A, 57 points)

Total points: 174

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-31

Combined points: 205

Justin Williams is regaining the form he once had before injury struck and set back his career. With the acquisition of Penner, the Kings gave Anze Kopitar a goal-scoring option on either wing. When this line begins to fully click, it will be nearly impossible to contain.

4. Tampa Bay Lightning

27 of 30
ATLANTA - OCTOBER 22:  Steven Stamkos #91 of the Tampa Bay Lightning celebrates with Vincent Lecavalier #4 and Martin St. Louis #26 after Stamkos' goal against Atlanta Thrasher at Philips Arena on October 22, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia.  (Photo by Kevin C.
ATLANTA - OCTOBER 22: Steven Stamkos #91 of the Tampa Bay Lightning celebrates with Vincent Lecavalier #4 and Martin St. Louis #26 after Stamkos' goal against Atlanta Thrasher at Philips Arena on October 22, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C.

LW Steven Stamkos: (43G, 43A, 86 points)

C Vincent Lecavalier: (18G, 22A, 40 points)

RW Martin St. Louis: (26G, 59A, 85 points)

Total points: 211

Cumulative plus/minus: Minus-2

Combined points: 209

Steven Stamkos and Marty St. Louis make up one of the best duos in hockey. The two just work together. With sometime-linemates Steve Downie and Ryan Malone down to injuries, Vinny Lecavalier was given the opportunity to play on what has the potential to be the best line in the NHL. He must be having a great time.

3. Chicago Blackhawks

28 of 30
CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 02: (L-R) Nick Leddy #8, Duncan Keith #2, Patrick Sharp #10 and Jonathan Toews #19 of the Chicago Blackhawks welcome teammate Patrick Kane #88 to celebrate Toew's goal against the Calgary Flames at the United Center on March 2, 2011 in
CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 02: (L-R) Nick Leddy #8, Duncan Keith #2, Patrick Sharp #10 and Jonathan Toews #19 of the Chicago Blackhawks welcome teammate Patrick Kane #88 to celebrate Toew's goal against the Calgary Flames at the United Center on March 2, 2011 in

LW Patrick Sharp: (34G, 33A, 67 points)

C Jonathan Toews: (30G, 41A, 71 points)

RW Patrick Kane: (24G, 38A, 62 points)

Total points: 200

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-19

Combined points: 219

In all likelihood, Patrick Sharp will post career-best numbers this season. Patrick Kane’s point totals would be higher if his ankle injury hadn’t affected his year. Jonathan Toews is the MVP of the line, the team and quite possibly the entire NHL. Arguably the most complete offensive line, but it doesn't rank the highest.

2. Boston Bruins

29 of 30
BOSTON, MA - MARCH 05:  David Krejci #46 of the Boston Bruins is congratulated by teammates Mark Recchi #28,Nathan Horton #18,Milan Lucic #17 and Zdeno Chara #33 after Krejci scored a goal in the final minute of the game to send it into overtime against t
BOSTON, MA - MARCH 05: David Krejci #46 of the Boston Bruins is congratulated by teammates Mark Recchi #28,Nathan Horton #18,Milan Lucic #17 and Zdeno Chara #33 after Krejci scored a goal in the final minute of the game to send it into overtime against t

LW Milan Lucic: (29G, 24A, 53 points)

C David Krejci: (12G, 44A, 56 points)

RW Nathan Horton: (20G, 26A, 46 points)

Total points: 155

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-73

Combined points: 228

Nathan Horton is a natural fit on the top line with Krejci and Lucic. The line has powered its way through this season, all the while playing an exceptional defensive game. Plus-70? Ridiculous.

1. Vancouver Canucks

30 of 30
VANCOUVER, CANADA - JANUARY 5: Daniel Sedin #22 of the Vancouver Canucks celebrates with brother Henrik Sedin #33 and Alexandre Burrows #14 after scoring against the Calgary Flames during the second period in NHL action on January 05, 2011 at Rogers Arena
VANCOUVER, CANADA - JANUARY 5: Daniel Sedin #22 of the Vancouver Canucks celebrates with brother Henrik Sedin #33 and Alexandre Burrows #14 after scoring against the Calgary Flames during the second period in NHL action on January 05, 2011 at Rogers Arena

LW Daniel Sedin: (38G, 54A, 92 points)

C Henrik Sedin: (18G, 68A, 86 points)

RW Alex Burrows: (21G, 22A, 43 points)

Total points: 221

Cumulative plus/minus: Plus-71

Combined points: 292

The Vancouver Canucks have it pretty good. Brother Daniel leads the NHL in points. Brother Henrik leads the NHL in assists. Alex Burrows is along for the ride, once again putting together a decent season on the same line as the prolific twins.

🚨Sabres Force Game 7 vs. Habs

TOP NEWS

NHL Mock Draft
Kucherov Landing Spots
Penn State v Michigan State
Minnesota Wild v Colorado Avalanche - Game Two

TRENDING ON B/R