Top 5 NHL players to start a franchise with, & Connor McDavid isn’t ranked first

A common question among NHL fans is which player they would choose to build a franchise around. Should you select a promising young talent, the current top player in the league, a skilled goalie, or a solid defenseman? Each year, the talent pool in the NHL continues to improve, and the pace of the game accelerates, making these decisions even more critical. MORE: 5 NHL teams that will surprise in 2026-2027 Pick #5: Connor Bedard Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) celebrates his goal against the Minnesota Wild during the first period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images The current superstar of the Chicago Blackhawks, Connor Bedard, starts your new franchise off with a strong talent who can score at all angles and also make his team around him stronger. The reason he isn’t higher on this list is that he has suffered some injuries in his career, and I still think there is another level to Bedard’s game that we have yet to see. Pick #4, Matthew Schaefer  At just 18 years old, Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders has transformed their new arena and marked the beginning of an exciting era under general manager Mathieu Darche. Schaefer brought incredible energy to the building and has become the team’s standout player. He has made significant contributions to the offense while also demonstrating impressive defensive abilities.  MORE: NHL players facing the most pressure entering 2026-2027 season Pick #3, Nathan MacKinnon May 26, 2026; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) reacts to the loss against the Vegas Golden Knights in game four of the Western Conference Final of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images Nathan MacKinnon is a great leader and knows how to win a Stanley Cup. When he has the puck, he has the wheels to beat any defender one-on-one with an amazing snap shot. Not many players can play both offensively and defensively. He has one of the best contracts in the NHL at $12.6 million per year. Considered a top-3 player, and the only one ahead of him for me is Connor McDavid. Pick #2, Connor McDavid Connor McDavid is arguably the best player to start a franchise with due to his exceptional talent and ability to lead a team to the playoffs. The Oilers boast a formidable duo with him and Draisaitl, but they still lack the depth needed to secure a championship. McDavid stands out as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Pick #1, Macklin Celebrini Apr 15, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini (71) warms up before a game against the Chicago Blackhawks at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images Macklin Celebrini’s rise in the NHL is remarkable. At just 20 years old, he achieved 115 points in his second season, showcasing a staggering 52-point increase—a true breakout year. His skills and attributes are exceptional, and he demonstrates maturity beyond his years. With some of the finest talent in the league at such a young age, he recently secured a significant contract extension. Starting your franchise with Celebrini means you’re setting yourself up for a bright future. — Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —