The 2025 NHL season has firmly established the left wing position as the most fiercely contested and talent-rich spot across the entire league. A constellation of stars, including Kyle Connor, Jason Robertson, Jake Guentzel, Morgan Geekie, and Kirill Kaprizov, have separated themselves from the pack. Their dominance was not just about putting up impressive scoring numbers but was defined by remarkable consistency, a significant impact during the high-pressure Stanley Cup Playoffs, and the ability to perform effectively in every possible game situation.
The Criteria for Ranking the Elite
The evaluation to determine the top performers was comprehensive. Analysts looked beyond just basic statistics, considering total games played, goals, total points, and production at even-strength. Crucially, a major weight was given to how these players performed when the stakes were at their absolute highest. The final top five list reflects not just raw talent but a proven influence on winning during the most grueling parts of the year. Notable players like Brandon Hagel, Clayton Keller, and Artemi Panarin also delivered strong campaigns, earning special mentions just outside the top tier.
1. Kyle Connor: The Undisputed King of the Left Side
Kyle Connor of the Winnipeg Jets emerged as the most impactful left winger of the year. His regular season was phenomenal, amassing a league-leading 91 points among all left wingers, with a staggering 68 of those points coming at even strength. He carried that excellence into the postseason, adding 17 points in just 13 playoff games. His blend of five-on-five scoring prowess, night-in, night-out consistency, and playoff excellence made him the clear choice for the top spot.
2. Jason Robertson: The Offensive Powerhouse
Dallas Stars' Jason Robertson reaffirmed his status as an elite offensive force. Over 85 regular-season games, he piled up 49 goals and 97 points, a testament to his scoring touch and playmaking ability. While his postseason output was quieter with six points in 11 games, his phenomenal and sustained regular-season performance was enough to secure the second position on this prestigious list.
3. Jake Guentzel: The Complete Two-Way Threat
After moving to the Tampa Bay Lightning, Jake Guentzel continued to excel. He recorded 39 goals and 82 points in 85 games during the regular season and contributed six points in five playoff appearances. His game evolved to include improved defensive responsibility, and his chemistry with other elite forwards ensured he remained a productive force in all situations, including on the international stage.
4. Morgan Geekie: The Breakout Sensation
The 2025 season's most surprising and delightful story among left wingers was Morgan Geekie of the Boston Bruins. He enjoyed a spectacular breakout year, playing in all 82 games and achieving what no other left winger did: scoring 50 goals and finishing with 81 points. This unexpected surge established him as a premier scorer, and his strong start to the 2025-26 season has shown that his production is sustainable, silencing any doubts about a one-off performance.
5. Kirill Kaprizov: The Dynamic Force Limited by Injury
When healthy, Kirill Kaprizov of the Minnesota Wild remains one of the most electrifying and dangerous players in hockey. His season, however, was curtailed by injuries, limiting him to 46 regular-season games where he still managed 25 goals and 52 points. He dazzled in the playoffs with nine points in six games. His points-per-game rate was among the highest at his position, but the limited total ice time ultimately restricted his overall impact for the year.
A Showcase of Depth and Excellence
The year 2025 served as a magnificent showcase for the incredible depth of power and skill present at the left wing position in the NHL. While each of the top five players brings a slightly different style and fulfills a unique role for their team, they collectively represent the gold standard of excellence, consistency, and clutch performance. Their ability to dictate games and influence outcomes has made the left wing the position to watch, setting a thrilling precedent for the seasons to come.
