cheapquality said:
Hello everyone. Whom do you think is the best player to ever exist in the NHL besides Gretzky?
A. Mario Lemieux
B. Gordie Howe
C. Bobby Orr
D. Bobby Clarke
E. Howie Morenz (Never saw him play but I've heard he was a great player.)
F. Stan Mikita
G. Mark Messier
H. Maurice Richard
I. Phil Esposito
J. Bobby Hull
K. Other
Depends. In terms of raw talent, Mario Lemieux is the best player ever. Nobody could touch him at his prime. He had excellent speed, a great shot, slick passing skills, and indomitable size. The complete offensive package.
However, Bobby Orr is the most revolutionary player ever. He changed the concept of the game to where it is today. Nobody saw rushes like Orr's and he was a defenseman! He really opened up the rearguard general attack on offense.
I hate Gretzky though. He actually doesn't have all the talent people mistakenly attribute to him. He admitted himself he lacked a lot of talent. I will say he is arguably the best passer ever, and that mentally, he is the king.
A lot of casual fans are all like, "Oh he's so fast and skilled!". I have to resist yelling, "Watch hockey once in awhile!"
He's not devoid of talent by a long stretch, but in terms of
actual ability, he's not as good as say Jagr or Ovechkin.