NHL Power Rankings: Ranking Each Team's All-Time Starting Lineups

Throughout the history of the National Hockey League, there have been many extraordinary players. 

Many of the teams in the league have a rich and fruitful history and have had their share of all-stars, legends, and champions.

In this slideshow we will delve in the realm of fantasy. The all-time greats of each NHL team will be ranked and compared against each other. In order to create the most effective and devastating lines possible, some forwards will be slotted in different roles.

The goal is to take the best players all time to ever be on the franchise's roster, and then pair them up for a power combo line.

The most interesting combinations will most likely come from the original six teams due to the fact that there is almost a century's worth of players to choose from.

How would the Red Wings all-time line of Ted Lindsay, Steve Yzerman, Gordie Howe, Nicklas Lidstrom, Red Kelly, and Terry Sawchuk matchup against other teams in the league?

Just take note that some players that are forwards may be slotted out of their usual position. Some teams also may have multiple players appearing because they played for multiple franchises.

This took a lot of work and research and I spoke with many different fans of each franchise to get a better understanding of who should make the cut. For example Wayne Gretzky was a great player for the Oilers. He was a great player for the Kings but there have been other players whose stats and chemistry may push him out.

I appreciate you taking the time to read this. 

Slideshows like these usually draw a lot of controversy so if you feel I slighted your team or a player please leave a comment, message me, or tweet me so I can address your concerns. Thank you very much for reading and enjoy !

No. 30 Atlanta Thrashers

LW- Ilya Kovalchuk  C- Marc Savard RW - Dany Heatley

D- Tobias Enstrom &  Dustin Byfuglien

G- Kari Lehtonen  

This now defunct franchise was in existence from 1999-2011. In that time the Thrashers made one playoff appearance.

The shining stars of the Thrashers all-time are listed above.

Ilya Kovalchuk held the all time points record for the franchise with 328 goals and 287 assists for 615 points.

Marc Savard was one of the better centers for the Thrashers as he tallied 63 goals and 133 assists for 196 points in 184 career games.  

Dany Heatley is the all-time leader for right wings with a total of 80 goals and 101 assists for 181 points.

On the blue line, Tobias Enstrom and Dustin Byfuglien earn top marks in the Thrashers power rankings.

Rounding out the line, Kari Lehtonen was the most successful goaltender in Thrashers history with a record of 93-83-17 and a goals against average of 2.88  with .912 SV%

No.29 Columbus Blue Jackets

LW- Rick Nash C- Jeff Carter RW- Nikolai Zherdev

D Jan Hjeda & Rotislav Klesla 

G- Steve Mason

Though Jeff Carter has yet to suit up for a game as a member of the Columbus Blue Jackets, the highly anticipated duo of Carter and Nash was too good to pass up for this power ranking.

Rick Nash is the face of the Columbus Blue Jackets and holds all the scoring titles. Nash has buried 259 goals and 229 assists for 478 total points as a Blue Jacket.

Jeff Carter is off to a great start in his young career. So far he has put up 181 goals and 162 assists for 343 points.

Rounding out the forwards is Nikolai Zherdev. Zherdev's career totals for the Blue Jackets are 76 goals and 105 assists for 181 points.

One the blue line stands Jan Hjeda and Rotislav Klesla. Klesla is 10th overall in career points for the Blue Jackets. Hjeda was a top defenseman for the Blue Jackets until he signed with the Colorado Avalanche this offseason.

In net is Steve Mason who has a career record of 77 -67- 23  with a 2.77 GAA and .906 SV% 

No. 28 Nashville Predators

LW- Martin Erat C- David Legwand RW- J.P. Dumont

D- Kimmo Timonen & Shea Weber

G- Tomas Vokoun

This lineup is on the lower end of the power ranking because of the time the Predators have been apart of the NHL.

In the short time that the Predators have been around, Martin Erat, David Legwand, and J.P. Dumont have been top forwards. The three have combined for 1117 total points. Erat and Legwand are still members of the Predators and Dumont is currently a UFA.

On the blue line, Kimmo Timonen and Shea Weber earn top marks. Timonen put up a total of 301 points during his time with the Preds.

Shea Weber is the current captain of the Nashville Predators and the face of the franchise. He is a symbol of the surging Nashville Predators as they attempt to become consistent playoff contenders.

In the crease is Tomas Vokoun. Vokoun is one of the few goalies to have success for the Predators and he was a solid goalie during his time spent in Nashville.

No. 27 Minnesota Wild

LW- Andrew Brunette C- Mikko Koivu- RW- Marian Gaborik

D- Brent Burns & Filip Kuba

G- Niklas Backstrom

This line combination was a pretty effective one. It had a good deal of chemistry as the line played a significant amount of time together.

Marian Gaborik was a sniper who would have better numbers had he not been plagued by injury. Gaborik has a total of 219 goals and 218 assists for 437 career points with the Wild.

Mikko Koivu has been the top center in the history of the Minnesota Wild. He was the first player to hold the captaincy outright. During his time with the Wild, Koivu has scored 96 goals and has assisted on 221 others for 317 career points.

Andrew Brunette completes the set of forwards for the Wild's All-Time Line. Brunette's totals for the Minnesota Wild included 119 goals and 202 assists for 321 career points. Brunette signed with the Blackhawks during this current offseason.

On the blue line are Brent Burns and Flip Kuba who combined for 315 points. Brent Burns is now a member of the Sharks and Filip Kuba is an Ottawa Senator.

In the crease is Niklas Backstrom who has a career record of 141-91 with a .917 SV% and 2.42 GAA.

No. 26 Florida Panthers

LW- Scott Mellanby  C- Olli Jokinen RW- Pavel Bure

D- Robert Svehla & Ed Jovanaski  

G- Roberto Luongo

The Florida Panthers have had many different player combinations since its inception in 1993. This combination of players is the most effective in the history of the Panthers.

On left wing is Scott Mellanby. Mellanby is a forward that played both wings during his career with the Panthers. He was a good player who put up some solid numbers during his time with the Panthers.

Mellanby netted 157 goals and 197 assists for 354 points.

Olli Jokinen was an effective pivot during his time in Florida. Olli's accolades include 188 goals and 231 assists for 419 points. 

On the right wing was the highly effective Russian Rocket Pavel Bure. Bure had lightning speed, a booming shot, and great hockey knowledge.

Bure's best year as a Panther saw him score 59 goals and 33 assists for 92 points. The year before he put up a 58 goal campaign with 36 assists for 94 points.

Ed Jovanovski and Rober Svehla are two defenseman that have stood out for the Panthers during their tenure. Ed Jovanovski re-signed with the Panthers this offseason and will likely finish his career there.

Robert Svehla holds the 6th spot for points in Panthers history. During his time spent in Florida, Svehla put up 61 goals and 229 assists for 290 points.

Roberto Luongo holds many goaltending records for the Panthers. Luongo had 108 career wins as a Panther of which 26 were shutouts.

It was Florida where Luongo got his start and has gone on to have success in Vancouver.

No. 25 Ottawa Senators

LW - Dany Heatley C- Jason Spezza RW- Daniel Alfredsson.

D- Wade Redden & Chris Phillips 

G- Dominik Hasek

Dany Heatley has made another power ranking as a member of the Ottawa Senators. His stint in Ottawa was more effective than the time he spent in Atlanta. Heatley had 362 points in 317 games for a total 1.14 PPG average in Ottawa.

At center is Jason Spezza who also averaged a PPG thus far in his young career. His 532 points in 526 games generate a 1.01 PPG average. His playmaking abilities and scoring talents make him a big trading chip for an Ottawa Senators team that is attempting to rebuild.

Rounding off the forwards is RW and aging captain Daniel Alfredsson. 

Alfredson has been a warrior for the Sens throughout his career. He is a member of the 1,000 point club with 1,024 overall points scored with 389 goals and 634 assists.

It may be a surprise to Rangers' fans but Wade Redden makes this list as a top player.

His 101 goals and 309 assists total for 410 points and 4th overall in Senators history

Chris Phillips would be Redden's fantasy warfare partner. Phillips is still a Senator and rounds out as 10th overall in points with 237. 

Even though the Dominator only played one season as a Senator, out of all the goalies ever to tend the pipes for the Senators, he is the one that fans would want in goal the most.

He is a bonafide stud in net and has so much talent and ability. 

This lineup is one of the better ones out of all the expansion teams.

No. 24 Tampa Bay Lightning

LW- Brad Richards C- Vinny Lecavalier RW- Marty St.Louis

D- Dan Boyle & Pavel Kubina

G- Nikolai Khabibulin 

This line isn't really a fantasy line as it these players weaved magic in open ice during their 2003-04 Stanley Cup run.

When you took the speed and hands of Marty St.Louis and paired him with two great passers and playmakers in Brad Richards and Vinny Lecavalier, many a goal was scored for the thousands of cheering fans in the St. Pete Times Forum.

The three forwards had quite the offensive output. Vinny Lecavalier put up 351 goals and 442 assists for 793 points, Marty St.Louis tallied 294 goals and 464 assists for 758 points, and Richards tucked away 150 goals and 339 assists for 489 points 

On the blue line were two great puck movers and shooters in Dan Boyle and Pavel Kubina. The combination of these five players was Tampa's top power play unit back in the day.

Who would your rather have in net than the Bulin Wall. Nikolai Khabibulin posted a record of 83- 74- 28   with a 2.39 GAA and .914 SV%. The Bulin wall was a key part of the Lightning and their 2003-04 Stanley Cup win.   

No. 23 Phoenix Coyotes/ Winnipeg Jets

LW Bobby Hull C- Dave Hawerchuk RW- Shane Doan

D- Teppo Numminen & Phil Housley 

G- Ilya Bryzgalov

The Phoenix Coyotes started out as the Winnipeg Jets. During that time they had some very talented stars. 

One of these players was the illustrious Bobby Hull. During his time as Winnipeg Jet, Bobby Hull scored 307 goals and 341 assists for a total of 648 points in only 429 games. He averaged a 1.51 PPG average.

Dave Hawerchuk has the suitable credentials to pivot this fantasy line.

It was a tough pick between him and Keith Tkachuk but Hawerchuk had some serious skill. In addition to his 379 goals and 550 assists for 929 points in 713 games, Hawerchuk was an all-star and Calder Trophy winner

Completing this line is current Phoenix Coyotes captain Shane Doan. Doan has scored 296 goals and 442 assits in 738 games during his Coyotes career thus far.

On the points for the Coyotes/Jets are Teppo Numminen & Phil Housley. Numminen was a great team player and captain for the Coyotes and amassed a career total of 108 goals and 426 assists for 534 points.

Phil Housley had three great years in Winnipeg. He averaged 80.3 points during his time there and had a 96 point campaign in the final season.

Lastly between the pipes is Ilya Byrzgalov who has had the best record in net for the Phoenix Coyotes. Bryzgalov has a career line of 130-90-27 with a 2.54 GAA and a .917 SV% 

No. 22 San Jose Sharks

LW Sergei Makarov - C- Patrick Marleau RW- Owen Nolan

D- Dan Boyle D- Rob Blake

G- Evgeni Nabakov

The Sharks have been apart of the NHL since 1991. In that time they have had a bunch of different players suit up for battle.

In the tenure of the Sharks, the above lineup would be most potent.

When you take the speed of Makarov, the playmaking skills set of Patrick Marleau, and throw in a player with grit and tenacity like Owen Nolan, you have a pretty solid line.

Offensively, Marleau has contributed 357 goals and 409 assists for 766 career points. Nolan also has scored 451 points of his own as a San Jose Shark. 

Having two skilled puck movers and two way defenders like Dan Boyle and Rob Blake at the point doesn't hurt either.

When it comes down to who you would want in net, statistically it is a no brainer in Evgeni Nabakov.

"Nabby" posted a 293-178-66 record and a 2.39 G.A.A. as a San Jose Shark.

This matchup is not one of the top lines in the history of the NHL but it would be great addition to any NHL franchise.

No.21 Carolina Hurricanes/Hartford Whalers

LW- Eric Staal C - Ron Francis RW- Kevin Dineen

D- Mark Howe & Glen Wesley

G- Cam Ward

This line in the interest of competition has been slotted as a left winger to play alongside Ron Francis and current Florida Panthers head coach and right winger Kevin Dineen.

Eric Staal is the current captain of the Carolina Hurricanes. He currently has 504 points in 590 career games as a Hurricane. He is third overall in club history.

At the pivot, Ron Francis is a no brainer. His 1,175 points were tallied with 382 goals and 793 assists. His playmaking and leadership abilities make Francis stand out as on of the best in the game's history.

Completing the all-time line is Kevin Dineen. Dineen played on a few clubs during his career. His most successful season came as a Whaler when he has a 89 point campaign in the 1988-89 season. He would score 544 total points as a Hartford Whaler.

On the blue line are Mark Howe, son of Gordie Howe, and Glen Wesley. Howe holds the franchise career high for points in a season by a defensemen with 80 during the 1979-80 season.

Howe shone as one of the best two-way defensemen of the 1980s and was a multi Norris Trophy runner up.

Glen Wesley is one of the only players in Whalers and Hurricanes history to have his jersey retired. Wesley was one of the best defender in franchise history and was a member of the 2005-06 Stanley Cup team.

Wesley currently is the Hurricanes' director of development for defensemen.

In the crease is Cam Ward. Ward's record to date stands at 175-126-33 with a 2.74 G.A.A. and a .909 SV%.

Cam Ward also one the Conn Smythe Trophy during the Hurricanes Stanley Cup season.

No.20 New Jersey Devils

LW- Patrick Elias C- Bobby Holik RW- John MacLean

D- Scott Stevens & Scott Niedermayer

G- Martin Broduer

Patrick Elias is one of the most underated players of the last decade in the NHL. Elias has been a loyal and consistent performer for the New Jersey Devils. His 335 goals and 481 assists, a total of 816 points, earn him the all-time lead in points as a Devil.

He is an exceptional two way forward and is a likely candidate to fill the vacant captaincy left by Jamie Langenbrunner. 

At center is Bobby Holik. As a Devil, the gritty center put up 202 goals and 268 assists for 470 points. He was another solid player for the New Jersey Devils.

He may not have been a great coach but John MacLean was good right winger for the Devils. Johnny Mac tallied 347 goals and 354 assists for 701 total points.

The all-time great defensemen for the Devils include the brutal and dominating force known as Scott Stevens. He was one of the most physical defenders during his day and could put points up as well.

Stevens' record of most points in a season by a defenseman in Devils history still stands at 78 during his 93-94 campaign.

Scott Niedermayer rounds off the point for the Devils. Nidermayer and his 18 playoff points en-route to a 2003 Stanley Cup victory were important to Devils.

He was a great two-way defender and leader and he carried that with him when he captained the Ducks to a title in 2007.

The goaltender in this lineup was an easy choice. He really needs no introduction as he well known throughout the league.

Marty Brodeur is if not the greatest, one of the greatest goalies in NHL history. His skills and raw ability has enabled him to hold almost every major goaltending record in NHL history.

No.19 Vancouver Canucks

LW Markus Naslund C Henrik Sedin RW Trevor Linden

D- Doug Lidster& Harold Snepsts

G- Roberto Luongo

Markus Naslund is one of the greatest Swedish players in NHL history. He is the all-time leading scorer for the Vancouver Canucks and was adored by the franchise.

Naslund netted 346 goals and assisted on 410 others for 756 career points as a Vancouver Canuck.

Centering this line would be Naslund's fellow countryman Henrik Sedin. Henrik Sedin has been a leader for the Canucks so far during his career. His career numbers include 157 goals and 509 assists for 666 points thus far.

Completing the line would be fan favorite and " Captain Canuck" himself Trevor Linden. During his career, Linden played both the center position and the right wing.

In 1140 career games as a Canuck, Linden scored 318 goals and assisted on 415 others for 733 career points.

On the points for the Canucks would be Doug Lidster and Harold Snepts.

Snepsts is one of the most popular players in the history of the Vancouver Canucks, where he spent the majority of his career, and currently serves on the team's scouting staff.

Doug Lidster spent 10 years with the Canucks and became a veteran presence on the blue line.

Lidster put up a career best 63 points during the 86-87 season when he scored 12 goals and assisted on 51 others.

Ironically he was traded in the 1993-94 season to the New York Rangers, the team that defeated the Canucks in the Stanley Cup Finals that year.

In the crease stands Roberto Luongo who statistically has been a top goaltender for the Vancouver Canucks. 

Luongo has a career record of 193-101-33 with a  2.34 G.A.A. and a .920 SV% as a Canuck.

No.18 Anaheim Ducks

LW- Paul Kariya C- Ryan Getlzaf RW- Teemu Selanne 

D- Scott Niedermayer & Chris Pronger

G- J.S Giguere

This would have the potential to be one amazing line. When you combine the speed of these three players in their primes, their offensive skill sets, and their hockey knowledge, you have a surefire recipe for success.

They didn't call Selanne the Finnish Flash for nothing. Teemu's lightning speed has enabled him to rack up 410 goals and 461 assists in 871 points in 774 games thus far. The Flash still has fight in him but an aging body may prevent him for returning next season.

Paul Kariya was Teemu's partner in crime on the Ducks.In 606 games, Kariya scored 300 goals and 369 assists for 669 points. 

The fantasy pivot for this line is the young captain of the Ducks, Ryan Getzlaf. Getzlaf is a talented player and is an Olympian. He currently has 126 goals and 289 assists for 415 points in 430 games thus far.

He is on pace to surpass Selanne's and Kariya's point totals.

At the points for this fantasy Duck line would be Scott Niedermayer and Chris Pronger. This pairing would be an optimal balance of offensive and defensive talents.

Niedermayer amassed 264 points as a Duck. He also served as the team's captain and won the Conn Smythe Award during the 2006-07 Stanley Cup Championship season.

Chris Pronger is a great intimidating defenseman that loved to take the body. He also could pass the puck as he has 114 assists as a member of the Ducks.

In the crease would be J.S. Giguere. Giguere won the Conn Smythe Award despite the fact that his Ducks were on the losing end of the 2002-03 Stanley Cup Finals.  

No. 17 Washington Capitals

LW- Alex Ovechkin C- Michal Pivonka RW- Peter Bondra

D- Calle Johansson & Rod Langway

G- Olaf Kolzig

Though Alexander the Great has played a few seasons for the Capitals, he is on the way to becoming the greatest players in Caps history.

Ovechkin is an explosive scorer with lightning quick speed and hands. He makes mince meat of defenders and uses his accurate shot to his advantage. 

So far, Ovechkin has 301 goals and 313 assists for 614 points. 

Centering this line would be career long Capital Michal Pivonka. Pivonka spent his entire career with the Caps and scored 181 goals and had 418 assists for a total of 599 points. 

Completing this line on the right wing would be Peter Bondra.

In 14 years with the Capitals, Bondra scored 472 goals and racked up 353 assists in 961 games. He holds Capitals team records in goals (472), points (825), power-play goals (137), game-winning goals (73), short-handed goals (32) and hat tricks (19). 

Bondra also is a five time all-star as a member of the Capitals.

On the blue line is Rod Langway and Calle Johansson.

During his run with the Capitals Johansson tallied 113 goals and assisted on 361 others for 474 total points.

Johansson was apart of the 1998 team that made the improbable run to the Stanley Cup finals before being defeated by the Detroit Red Wings.

Rod Langway was a tremendous defenseman for the Washington Capitals. He was nicknamed " Secretary of Defense" for his exceptional play.

Langway won the Norris Trophy as the NHL's top defenseman in both 1983 and 1984. He also held the Capitals captaincy for 11 seasons.

Lastly but not certainly least on this all-time Caps squad is net minder Olaf Kolzig.

In his Caps career, Ollie the goalie suited up for 711 games of which he posted a 301-293-86 record with a 2.70 GAA and a .906 SV%

This Caps team could certainly give opponents a run for their money.

No.16 Dallas Stars

LW- Brian Bellows C- Mike Modano RW- Dino Ciccarelli

D-Sergei Zubov D- Derian Hatcher

G- Ed Belfour

As the countdown starts to wind down, lets take a look at the Dallas Stars all-time lineup. This lineup is the product of both Dallas Stars and Minnesota North Stars.

The most prominent player in Stars history is Mike Modano. His 557 goals and 802 assists for 1359 points is the most in Dallas/Minnesota history.

He is an ambassador both for the Stars as well as USA Hockey.

On the left wing is Brian Bellows. Bellows contributed 342 goals and 380 assists for 722 career points during his Stars' career. In a Sports Illustrated piece, Bellows was once described as the hottest prospect since Wayne Gretzky.

Completing the forward line is right winger Dino Ciccarelli. 

Ciccarelli was one of the most succesful players never to be drafted. During his tenure he lite the lamp 332 times and helped on 319 others for 651 career points.

On the points for the Stars are Sergei Zubov and Derian Hatcher. Sergei Zubov was one of the premier puck moving defenders during his day.

Zubov had 553 career points made up of 442 assists and 111 goals as a Dallas Star.

Derian Hatcher is a player that made history for the Dallas Stars. Hatcher played another 10 years for the Dallas Stars, collecting 71 goals, 223 assists and 1,380 penalty minutes.

Hatcher also captained the Stars to the Stanley Cup in 1999. In doing so, he became the first American-born captain to win the Stanley Cup.

In the goal crease for this " All Stars team" is Ed Belfour.

Belfour was a fan favorite for the Dallas Stars. In the time Eddie spent in Dallas, he posted a 160-95-44 record with a 2.19 G.A.A. and 27 shutouts. Belfour was a key piece for the Stars when they hoisted the cup in 1999.

No.15 Calgary Flames

LW Theo Fleury C Joe Niewendyk RW Jarome Iginla

D- Al MacInnis & Gary Suter

G- Mike Vernon

This group of players would bring some excitement to the NHL if they teamed up for battle.

Theo Fleury was one of the most explosive players in NHL history both on and off the ice. He was a all-time great for the Calgary Flames and scored a lot of big goals for the Flames.

Jarome Iginla has had a great career to this point as the captain of the Calgary Flames. He like Fleury, has been a great contributor to the Flames' franchise.

Joe Niewendyk completes this triumphant trio and he brings some extensive credentials. He is considered by many to be one of the best face-off men in NHL history. He won a Stanley Cup champion with the Flames during the 1989 season.

During his time as a Flame, Niewendyk contributed 314 goals, 302 assists for 616 points overall

On the points for the Flames would be the Al MacInnis and his booming shot and Gary Suter.Suter scored 128 goals and assisted on 437 others for 565 total points as a Flame. 

Tending the pipes for the Flames would Mike Vernon. Vernon was a member of the Flames for 13 seasons. During that time he posted a career record of 262-187-57.

This lineup is full of forwards who pack and offensive puck and defensemen that can play both ways. 

No.14 St.Louis Blues

LW- Brian Suter C-Bernie Federko RW- Brett Hull

D- Al MacInnis & Chris Pronger

G- Jacque Plante

This line if combined in their primes would be an offensive powerhouse. These players all knew how to put the puck in the net. 

Bernie Federko was a great center and tallied 352 goals and 721 assits for 1,073 points during his career with the Blues.

On the right wing for this fantasy line would be Brett Hull.

Brett Hull was an impressive player to watch during his prime. His 527 goals and 409 assists for 936 points in only 744 games is a really impressive feat.

Brian Sutter and his 303 goals and 333 assists for 636 points would complete the line as the left wing.

At the points would be two of the hardest shooters in the game. Al MacInnis had a booming shot that was clocked at over 100mph. 

Throughout his entire career, MacInnis totaled 340 goals and 934 assists for 1274 points.

Chris Pronger completes the blue line with his intimidating physical play and shot. As a St.Louis Blue, Pronger tallied 84 goals and 272 assists for 356 points.

In the crease for the Blues would be Jacque Plante. Even though he only played two seasons with the Blues where he posted a record of 36-21-11 with a 2.07 GAA.

Jacque Plante was one of the greatest goalies in hockey history and he was a suitable choice for this list. 

No.13 Buffalo Sabres

LW- Dave Andreychuk C- Gilbert Perreault RW- Rick Martin

D- Phil Housley & Mike Ramesy

G- Dominik Hasek

Starting off with the left wing, Dave Andreychuk was a top winger for the Buffalo Sabres. He put up some big numbers during the time he spent as a Sabre.

Andreychuk tallied 368 goals and 436 assists for 804 points in Buffalo. 

Moving to center, Gilbert Perreault was a dominant playmaker during his time in Buffalo. He was a member of the French connection line and had great chemistry with his line mates.

Perreault is the all-time leader in points for Buffalo with 512 goals and 814 assists for a total of 1,326 points.

Perreault is also current owner Terry Pegula's all-time favorite player.

On the right wing is winger Rick Martin who has been moved from his usual right wing. He had great chemistry with Perreault as two thirds of the French Connection line.

On defense is offensive stalwart Phil Housley who tallied 558 points. Housley had some good years with the Sabres and he is the second leading scorer amongst US born players, with 1,232 points

His partner is 1980 Olympian Mike Ramesy. He was a four time all-star for the Sabres and he also served as the Sabres team captain during his 14 seasons with club.

In goal is the "Dominator" Dominik Hasek once again. He once again needs no introduction as he was one of the most dominating goalies in the game during his career. 

No. 12 Toronto Maple Leafs

LW-Daryl Sitler C- Mats Sundin RW- George Armstrong

D-Borje Salming & King Clancy

G- Johnny Bower

This line takes playmaker and center Daryl Sitler and slots him on the left wing. The Maple Leafs have a long and rich history and it makes it hard to select players to represent them.

Sitler was an easy choice due to his NHL prestige. Sittler set an NHL record that still stands for most points scored in one game. He recorded ten points (six goals, four assists) against the Boston Bruins. 

In addition he also tallied a total of 484 career goals and 637 assists for 1121 points.

Mats Sundin was an excellent player during his time spent in Toronto. He holds Leafs records in goals (420), assists by a forward (587), and points (987). He wore the captain's C during his tenure in Toronto and was a nine time all-star.

George Armstrong rounds out the forwards on the right wing. 

Armstrong played for the Toronto Maple Leafs for twenty-one seasons and served as the team's captain for eleven of them, the longest such tenure in Leafs' history.

He was a four time Stanley Cup champion, a seven time all-star and fifth in points overall (713).

The blue line includes Borje Salming, fourth overall in points as a Leaf and King Clancy who is most famous for The King Clancy Memorial Trophy which is  awarded annually to the NHL player who demonstrates leadership qualities on and off the ice and who has made exceptional humanitarian contributions in the community.

In net for the Leafs is Johnny Bower. Bower was nicknamed the China Wall and was a dominate goaltender. He was a four time Stanley Cup Champion and was a two time Vezina Trophy winner. 

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No.11 Colorado Avalanche/Quebec Nordiques

LW- Peter Stastny C- Joe Sakic RW- Milan Hejduk

D- Adam Foote & Ray Bourque

G- Patrick Roy

This is a line made in heaven when you combined two playmaking centers in Joe Sakic and Paul Stastny who has been slotted in the left wing in the interest of competition along with power forward winger Milan Hejduk.

In his 20-year tenure, Sakic won the Stanley Cup twice, won many awards and was voted into 13 NHL All-Star Games. Joe Sakic was captain of the Colorado Avalanche for 18 years.

Sakic hold almost every scoring record in Avalanche history. These include most all-time goals (625), assists (1016), and points (1641). 

Peter Stastny his predecessor had an extensive career as well. Stastny scored 380 goals and assisted 668 other for 1048 total points.

Completing the line is current Avalanche player Milan Hejduk. Hejduk is fourth alltime in points with 357 goals and 400 assists for 757 points. He was a member of the Stanley Cup squad with Joe Sakic, Ray Bourque, Adam Foote and Patrick Roy.

Ray Bourque had an illustrious career with the Boston Bruins but won his only Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche back in 2000-01. He was a great player that would be a welcome addition to any team in this power ranking.

Adam Foote was a long standing warrior and soldier on the Ave's blue line. He won  a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 1996 and 2001.He also won Olympic Gold with Team Canada in 2002.

In the crease is Patrick Roy. Roy held almost every major goaltending record until Marty Brodeur emerged as an elite goaltender.

Nonetheless, Roy's skill, athleticism and drive made him a very successful hockey player for the Colorado Avalanche.

No.10 New York Rangers

LW- Mark Messier C- Jean Ratelle RW- Rod Gilbert

D- Brian Leetch & Harry Howell

G- Mike Richter

The New York Rangers have had many great players during their 86 year history in the NHL. 

In those 86 years Mark Messier is arguably one of the greatest captains ever to grace Broadway. The "Messiah" brought the Cup back to the Garden in 1994 when the Rangers won the Stanley Cup. 

He is arguably one of the greatest leaders in the history of the game and is the only player to captain multiple teams to Stanley Cup glory.

Jean Ratelle was so consistently effective at an elite level of play during his day. He is one of the most underrated players from his era.

Ratelle was apart of the Goal A Game line with Rod Gilbert and Vic Hadfield. This line was one of the most dominant during their time.

While he never played on a team that won the Stanley Cup, Ratelle was a member of the 1972 Team Canada squad that defeated the Soviet Union in the first-ever Summit Series.

Ratelle's Rangers' totals include 336 goals and 481 assists for 817 points. 

Rod Gilbert is the Rangers all-time leading scorer and was a member of the aforementioned GAG line.

Gilbert was an eight time all-star and played his entire career with the Rangers. He holds Rangers' records for career goals (406) and points (1021).

Brian Leetch is arguably the greatest American born defenseman in the NHL's history.

He was a two-time Norris Trophy winner and was the first American-born winner of the Conn Smythe Trophy for his stellar play during the Rangers' run to the 1994 Stanley Cup Championship

He won the Calder Trophy as the NHL Rookie of the Year in 1989 and his 23 goals that season remain an NHL record for rookie defensemen.

Leetch's greatest offensive year was his 102 point campaign in the 91–92 season.Leetch is often referred to as the Greatest Ranger of all-time. 

Harry Howell was a captain for the New York Rangers and exceptional defenseman. He was a Norris Trophy in 1967 and was a seven time all star.

In the pipes for the New York Rangers is one of the greatest American born goalies in league history. Mike Richter won 301 games for the New York Rangers in an injury shortened career.

He represented America in international events that includes the 1996 World Cup of Hockey and the 2002 Winter Olympics.

Richter is remembered most for his penalty shot on Pavel Bure during the 1994 Stanley Cup Finals.

Richter was ranked the third great Ranger of all-time in 2009.  

No.9 Pittsburgh Penguins

LW- Ron Francis C- Mario Lemieux RW- Jaromir Jagr

D- Paul Coffey & Randy Caryle 

G- Tom Barrasso

This line all played together at the same time but never predominately as one sole unit. This line would have been one of the greatest lines in the NHL's history.

Ron Francis was a great scorer and passer and was a great two way player. He was a Selke Trophy winner and retired in the top three for total points in NHL history.

Mario Lemieux is simply one of the greatest players ever to lace up skates.

Lemieux led Pittsburgh to two Stanley Cups in 1991 and 1992, won a Stanley Cup as owner of the Penguins in 2009 .

Internationally, Lemieux led Canada to an Olympic gold medal in 2002, a championship at the 2004 World Cup of Hockey, and a Canada Cup in 1987.

Awards and prestige were a familiarity to Lemeiux. He won three Hart Trophies as MVP six Art Ross Trophies and two Conn Smythe Trophies as playoff MVP.

Lemieux amassed 690 goals and 1,033 assists for 1,723 points with the Penguins.

Jaromir Jagr, aka Mario Jr is one of the greatest right wingers in league history.

Jagr won two Stanley Cups, was a five time Art Ross winner , a three time Pearson Trophy winner, and a Hart Trophy winner in 1999. He scored 439 goals and 640 assists for 1079 points as a Penguin.

On the blue line for the Penguins would be Paul Coffey, the second all-time leading scorer among NHL defencemen in career goals, assists, and points, behind Ray Bourque.

Randy Caryle rounds at the pairing as Coffey's partner. Caryle is the only Penguin ever to capture the Norris Trophy as top defenseman.

In the crease for the Penguins is Tom Barrasso. Barrasso was a clutch goalie down the stretch for the Penguins especially during their back to back Stanley Cup victories. Barrasso is the winningest goaltender in Penguins history with 226 career victories. 

No. 8 New York Islanders

LW Clark Gillies C Bryan Trottier RW Mike Bossy 

D Dennis Potvin & Ken Morrow

G Billy Smith

The 1980s New York Islanders were one of the most dominating teams in league history.

Bryan Trottier was a skilled center for the Isles during his tenure on Long Island. He scored 500 goals and assisted on 853 other for  1353 points. He had skill and could find his teammates in the open ice.

Mike Bossy was a dominant power winger for the Isles and is considered one of the greatest Islanders ever. His 573 goals and 553 assists for 1,126 points place him second on the scoring list.

Clark Gillies completes the triumphant trio and brings  304 goals and 359 assists for 663 points of his own to the line. He provided both physical presence and offensive punch for the NHL's New York Islanders during their four-year run as Stanley Cup champions

This Islander line not only packs a potent offensive punch but had great chemistry during their heyday

On the blue line is a no brainer in Dennis Potvin who contributed 310 goals and 742 assists as an Islander for a total of 1,052 points.

Potvin was a great two way defender and was a integral part to the 1980s Islanders. If you take Potvin out of the equation. the Islanders may have not been as dominant.

Ken Morrow is in a unique class of his own. Morrow had one of the most incredible years in hockey history when he won Olympic Gold in 1980 and a Stanley Cup with the Islanders months later. He would win four cups with the Islanders during his tenure. 

In the crease for this all-time Isles squad would be no one other than the great Billy Smith. He is arguably one of the most clutch playoff goalies in NHL history. Not many goalies can boast that they backstopped a team to four straight Stanley Cups. 

No.7 Los Angeles Kings

LW- Luc Robitaille C-  Marcel Dionne RW- Dave Taylor * Honorable Mention - Wayne Gretzky

D- Rob Blake D- Marty McSorley

G- Rogatien Vachon

This was a very tough pick. Leaving off Wayne Gretzky for the main roster was a difficult decision but here are a couple of reasons why.

Each man on the forward line has amassed 1000 points or more. Luc Robitaille is the all-time leader in points for all left wingers in NHL history.

Marcel Dionne was one of the greatest centers in NHL history likewise and put up some astonishing numbers as a member of the Los Angeles Kings.

He earns top honors with his 550 goals and 757 assists for 1154 points in 921 games which equates to a PPG average of 1.41.

Completing the line is Dave Taylor on the right wing. Taylor notched 550 goals and 757 assists for 1154 points as an LA King.

On the points are journeyman Rob Blake and the rough and tough Marty McSorley.

Rob Blake was an exceptional LA King. Blake's crowning moment as an L.A. King was when he won the Norris Trophy during the 1997-98 season.

Marty McSorley is well known for his rough and tough play as well as the infamous Jimi Hendrix impression used at Donald Brashear's expense.

Regardless he was a versatile player who was effective defenseman and forward. 

The netminder for the Kings all-time squad is no other than Rogie Vachon. Vachon is the all-time leader in wins for the L.A. Kings with a record of 171-148-66 and a 2.86 G.A.A.

This is one of the most star studded lineups in our power rankings and it makes sense for this Hollywood based NHL franchise.

No. 6 Philadelphia Flyers

LW- Brian Propp C- Bobby Clarke RW- Mark Recchi

D- Mark Howe & Eric Desjardins 

G- Bernie Parent

This lineup has an optimal balance of high octane offense, shutdown defense, and overall solid two way players.

Mark Recchi just retired this season. He played and won a Stanley Cup in three different decades. While he never won a championship for the Flyers, Recchi was one of the most dominating right wingers in league history.

Brian Propp amassed  1,004 points over 1,016 NHL games in 15 NHL seasons, and ranks second in Flyers history in goals (369) second in assists (480),  and third overall in games played. Propp was also a five time all-star during his prolific career.

Bobby Clarke defines the ultimate hockey grin and smile. He was always missing a tooth or two and loved to play the game with heart and soul. He had a great career and put up some solid numbers.

During his 15 season playing career, he led the Flyers to two Stanley Cups and was awarded the Hart Trophy as league MVP three times.

Clarke was an exceptionally talented playmaker, and had three 100-point seasons. Clarke led by example and played the game the right way. He was a great face-off man, took the body, and had a do or die work ethic.

The defensemen for this Flyers team includes Mark Howe and former captain Eric Desjardins.

In the pipes would be the great Bernie Parent. Parent defined what it meant to be a clutch goaltender. The Flyers won two Stanley Cups int the 1970s with Parent and he won the Vezina Trophy and Conn Smythe Trophy both seasons. 

No. 5 Boston Bruins

LW- Johny Bucyk C- Phil Esposito RW- Rick Middleton

D- Ray Bourque & Bobby Orr

G- Tim Thomas

The Boston Bruins are led by two stellar defenseman and an amazing goal keeper.

Bobby Orr is one of the greatest hockey players of all time. Orr used his speed, scoring, and play-making abilities to revolutionize the role of an offensive defenseman.

Orr is the only defenseman to have won the league scoring title and has won two Art Ross Trophies and holds the record for most points and assists in a single season by a defenseman.

Orr won a record eight consecutive Norris Trophies and also won three consecutive Hart Trophies as MVP.

Ray Bourque also had an amazing career. Accolades include being first by defensemen in all-time points (1,579) and goals (410) 

Bourque is also the leader in shots on goal with 6,206, third in all-time cumulative plus-minus with 528, behind Larry Robinson and Orr.

He would also win the Norris Trophy five times and one Stanley Cup.

The combination of forwards include 3,249 overall points. It is safe to say that Phil Esposito, Johny Bucyk, and Rick Middleton were offensively gifted players. 

Phil Esposito stands out among all the rest as the leader in points among forwards.

Choosing who would be the top goalie in all Bruins history for this line was difficult. Tim Thomas has played remarkably over the last few years and has won two Vezina Trophies.

He also won a Conn Smythe Award and  a Stanley Cup this past year. Tim Thomas is a good proof of the statement that age is merely just a number.

No.4 Chicago Blackhawks

LW- Bobby Hull C- Stan Mikita RW- Steve Larmer

D- Doug Wilson & Chris Chelios 

G- Glenn Hall

Bobby Hall had one of the hardest shots during his time in the NHL. He would attempt to make his sticks as straight as possible so he could attain maximum velocity on his slap shots.

It obviously worked as he tallied 604 goals and 549 assists for 1,153 points as a Hawk.

Center Stan Mikita was another player with a lethal rip.

Mikita was a two time Hart Winner, a four time Art Ross winner, and two time Lady Byng winner, and a nine time allstar. His crowning achievment was his Stanley Cup win in 1961. He also retired with 541 goals and 926 assists for 1,476 points

Steve Larmer completes the trio as the leading scorer for right wingers in Hawks history. Larmer441 goals and compiled  571 assists in his career for 1012 points.

On the blue line for the Hawks is Doug Wilson, the offensive leader amongst defenseman with 225 goals and 554 assists for 779 points with the Hawks, and Chris Chelios one of the oldest defenseman to suit up for an NHL game. Chelios recently retired and was a three time Norris Trophy Winner.

Glenn Hall was one of the many goalies of his generation not to wear a mask. He put up impressive totals during his hall of fame career.

Hall won a career total 407 games and had a 2.49 G.A.A. He was a 13 time all-star, a three time Vezina Trophy winner and two time Stanley Cup champion with one Conn Smythe Award.

No.3 Edmonton Oilers

LW- Mark Messier C- Wayne Gretzky RW- Jari Kurri

D- Paul Coffey D- Kevin Lowe

G- Grant Fuhr

This forward line really needs no introduction. Combined, this line has 1,492 goals, 2,358 assists for 3,850 points.

Wayne Gretzky was the pivot who could make anyone score a goal. He is the greatest player of his era and the measuring stick that all players line up against.

Mark Messier was a great compliment to Gretzky and led by example.

The great Jari Kurri was lightning quick and hands soft hands for receiving crisp passes en-route to a goal.

Trying to use words to describe the shear force and awesomeness of this line would be degrading.

Paul Coffey and Kevin Lowe were two of the best defenseman to sport an Oilers sweater. They were shutdown defenders who could pass, shoot, and score. The dual threat these men possessed made them integral parts of the Edmonton dynasty.

In the goal, Grant Fuhr was one of the greats. He backstopped the Oilers to five Stanley Cups and was nothing short of amazing. Fuhr was rewarded for his dominance with a Vezina Trophy in the 1987-88 campaign.

This line is the greatest of all time out of the non original six franchises.

No.2 Montreal Canadiens

LW- Guy Lefleur C- Jean Béliveau RW- Maurice Richard

D- Larry Robinson D- Guy Lapointe

G- Jacque Plante 

The Montreal Canadiens are the most storied franchise in NHL history. They hold the most Stanley Cup Wins in NHL history (23) and have had many talented players throughout their tenure.

This was one of the toughest decisions to make.

Guy Lefleur is slotted in the left wing in this concoction of fantasy warfare. He holds the record for most points (1246) made up of 518 goals and 728 assists. The 728 assists are the most in franchise history.

Guy Lafleur won three Art Ross Trophies (1976, 1977, 1978), two Hart Memorial Trophies (1977, 1978), three Lester B. Pearson Awards (1976, 1977, 1978), and one Conn Smythe Trophy (1977). Lafleur also won five Stanley Cups.

Jean Béliveau is another all-time great for NHL centers.

As a player, he won the Stanley Cup 10 times, and as an executive he was part of another seven championship teams, the most Stanley Cup victories by an individual to date.

Béliveau was a 14 time all-star, a one time Art Ross Trophy winner , a Conn Smythe Award winner, and two time Hart Trophy recipient.

He scored 507 goals and had 712 assists for 1,219 points in 1,125 NHL regular-season games plus 79 goals and 97 assists for 176 points in 162 playoff games. 

Maurice "Rocket" Richard needs no introduction. He was one of the greatest pure goal scorers the game has ever known and the Award named in his honor is fitting.

Richard scored 544 career goals and had 421 assists for 965 points overall. Richard also won the Stanley Cup eight times in Montreal. He was the captain of four straight cup wins from 1957–1960, and won the Hart Trophy in 1947.

On defense is Larry Robinson and Guy Lapointe. Robinson won the Norris Trophy twice and won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the 1978 playoffs. Robinson was a dominant player whose talent and leadership helped lead the Canadiens to six Stanley Cups.

He was an offensive stalwart and contributed  208 goals, 750 assists and 958 regular-season points as well as 144 points in 227 playoff games. He holds an impressive career rating of +730, an NHL career record

Guy Lapointe recorded 171 goals and 451 assists for 622 points in his career. He holds the Montreal Canadiens' record for most goals in a season for a defenseman (28), and most goals for a rookie defenseman (15). 

Along with defensemen Larry Robinson and Serge Savard, Lapointe was a member of the "Big Three". He would win the Stanley Cup six times.

In the crease for the Canadiens is Jacque Plante, the father of the goalie mask. He has had the biggest impact on the goalie position in NHL history.

Had he not donned a mask after being busted open by an Andy Bathgate slapper, the game could have evolved at a much slower pace. He hold the most wins in Canadiens history with 314 career wins. 

No.1 Detroit Red Wings

LW- Ted Lindsay C- Steve Yzerman RW Gordie Howe

D- Nicklas Lidstrom & Red Kelly

G- Terry Sawchuk 

The Detroit Red Wings have emerged as having the greatest all-time lineup ever. Yes I know the comments will pile up saying Montreal should have taken the top spot.

Ted Lindsay, Steve Yzerman, and Gordie Howe all in their primes would have made a dominating line.

Steve Yzerman is probably in the top 5 for centers of all time. He was an amazing captain and leader. His selfless play, will, and determination to succeed allowed him to play at an elite level.

Mr Hockey Gordie Howe is the greatest or second greatest hockey player of all time depending on who you talk to.

He embodied what it mean to be a complete hockey player. He could shoot, score, pass, grind, check, and would often fight. He innovated the Gordie Howe hat trick which many players attempt to capture.

When you add Ted Lindsay, this forward line becomes overkill. In his 1,068 career regular season games, Lindsay scored 379 goals and had 472 assists for 851 points. He played 133 playoff games in addition and recorded 47 goals and 96 points.

There is a reason an award is named after this man. The NHL Players' Association announced in 2010 that the Lester B. Pearson Award would be reintroduced as the Ted Lindsay Award for his skill, tenacity, leadership, and role in establishing the original Players' Association.

When you add the Red Wings blue line into the mix this team becomes lethal.

Nicklas Lidstrom will most likely go down in history as the greatest defenseman in history. He has won the Norris Trophy, which I am convinced will be renamed the Lidstrom trophy one day, seven times, he has amassed 253 goals, and 855 assists for 1108 career points.

To top it off, he is a four time Stanley Cup Champion and 11 time all-star.

To complete the defensive pairing for the Wings is Red Kelly who was a very versatile player.

Kelly was exceptional two way player and a great checker . He also moved the puck with skill and ease ..

In over 12 years as a Red Wing he won four Stanley Cups and was an eight time all-star.

In the crease for the ravenous Red Wings was a man named Terry Sawchuk.

Sawchuk won a Calder Trophy, five Vezina Trophies, four Stanley Cups, and was an 11 time all-star. 

Sawchuk's NHL record for career shut-outs (103) stood for 39 years until broken by Martin Brodeur in 2009.

He retired with a career record of 447-330-172 with a 2.52 G.A.A.

This team if healthy and in its prime, and complemented with the necessary players could wins Stanley Cups for decades. 

Comments, Questions, Concerns?

This took a lot of work and research and I spoke with many different fans of each franchise to get a better understanding of who should make the cut. 

Slideshows like these usually draw a lot of controversy so if you feel I slighted your team or a player please leave a comment, message me, or tweet me so I can address your concerns. Thank you very much for reading and enjoy !

Tom Urtz is an NHL Featured Columnist and is a member of Bleacher Report's Official 2011 NHL Free Agency Coverage Team. For more NHL free agent news, updates and alerts about players: