The man with the most interesting outfits in the NHL has returned to play, and just like that, so have the Style Rankings.
Of course, we're talking about Patrik Laine. The sniper made his Montreal Canadiens debut in early December, now he's got eight goals – all on the power play – in 13 games. Laine's style of play is just like his style off the ice: He's going to make a flashy impact, and he's going to do it his way.
His pre-game 'fits have been a small relief in a particularly boring season for NHL fashion. So with one of the few difference makers back, let's take a look at some of the best-dressed players throughout the NHL for the past few months.
10. Conor Garland, Vancouver Canucks
Connor Garland dresses like a cool substitute teacher, if substitute teachers were rich. It's a vibe we can get on board with; at the very least least it's a departure from the sea of Hugo Boss suits.
Most of all, Garland is reminding us all here that it's not illegal for an NHL player to wear good shoes.
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9. Blake Coleman, Calgary Flames
Blake Coleman is from Texas, so we shouldn't be surprised that his Matthew McConaughey vibes are off the charts. Have we gauged his interest in starring in a future Hallmark adaptation of one of those hockey romance novels?
At the very least, can someone get this guy a scarf or hat sponsorship? He's earned it.
8. Linus Ullmark, Ottawa Senators
One of the most consistently well-dressed players in the league, Ullmark has kept that reputation intact through his first season in Ottawa. He sticks to the refined classics and shows us that good tailoring, not neglecting outerwear, and a tasteful pop of color go a long way.
Oh, and don't forget the pocket square. Never forget the pocket square.
7. Yanni Gourde, Seattle Kraken
No NHL player was more prepared for 2025 than Yanni Gourde. What a perfect example of a holiday fit that feels special without leaning too tacky. This is the kind of New Year's Eve suit you put on a Pinterest board for inspiration for next year's party and forget all about it. Maybe this year we'll remember how sleek this shade of blue is thanks to Gourde.
6. Erik Karlsson, Pittsburgh Penguins
The year is 2045. Erik Karlsson is the highest-scoring defenseman on the worst team in the league, and we're all still writing think-pieces blaming him for everything. He's still walking into the rink in the most aesthetically pleasing clothing in the game.
Erik, we at the Style Rankings beg you to never retire. Some may complain you're overpaid, but we think you're one of the few long-term players we can trust to put the money to good use in the suit department.
5. Martin Nečas, Carolina Hurricanes
Please watch this awesome video the Canes made with Nečas, as he takes us through his style journey.
Now, please enjoy this tribute to Michael Jordan, one of my favorite NHL looks of the year even though it was tied to a theme night.
We beg the NHL to loosen things up and let the guys show off more streetwear. Look at the possibilities.
4. Jack Eichel, Vegas Golden Knights
Eichel likes to put a little modern spin on the classics, and he's nailing that on and off the ice during the best season of his career. If you're going to wear a turtleneck, please wear the turtleneck. No mock turtlenecks in 2025. Loud and proud and expensive looking fabric like Eichel's rocking here.
3. Patrik Laine, Montreal Canadiens
He's back, and you probably knew he'd be making an appearance in the Top 3. You never quite know what Laine is going to pull out of his wardrobe, but you know it's going to make you feel something.
We love the pink monochrome fake out with the beanie and suit jacket, ruined by the blue tie. He wasn't letting us off that easy. We love the statement pants, a fashion device almost everyone should use more. As always, we love his ability to recycle memorable pieces and make them feel different across various outfits.
2. Brock Faber, Minnesota Wild
Imagine you're a kid with glasses watching Brock Faber play 300 minutes per night, looking like the coolest kid in the world to ever do it. Faber's fits ooze confidence. The hair and the glasses remind us that the world is your accessory if you choose to view it that way. The tailoring and color selection of his suits are next level.
1. William Nylander, Toronto Maple Leafs
We don't deserve William Nylander. In a league where we're just hoping we get a crumb of current fashion -- or a tied sneaker, or a nice sock -- Nylander is in a league of his own.
He's not just in the conversation, he's starting it. He (well, hey, his stylist) uses shapes and tailoring with intention. He knows how to wear the fit without the fit wearing him. He's tastefully daring, and he's a pro at harmonizing casual and formal pieces.
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