The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) has unveiled its Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years, showcasing influential alumni from the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL. This initiative, tied to the CHL's 50th anniversary, recognizes outstanding players and offers fans a chance to vote on their favorites from February 10 to March 10. The list represents a diverse group, including Hall of Famers, active NHL stars, and Olympic champions, reflecting five decades of hockey excellence. A total of 31 players are Hall of Famers, with 11 actively playing in the NHL and a combined 81 Stanley Cup championships among them.

By the Numbers
  • 31 of the 50 honorees are inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
  • 34 of the players have won the Stanley Cup, collectively securing 81 championships.
Yes, But

While the players selected reflect an impressive legacy, debates may arise over the criteria used for evaluation, including how historical context and era-defining influence are weighed against individual achievements.

State of Play
  • Fan voting is live until March 10, allowing input on ranking the players 1 through 50.
  • The final ranking will be announced later this spring, building excitement among fans and players alike.
What's Next

Expect heightened fan engagement as the voting period progresses, with anticipation for the final ranking and the special event featuring CHL/NHL alumni planned for the 2026 Memorial Cup.

Bottom Line

The CHL’s Top 50 Players list not only honors the sport’s legends but also invites ongoing fan interaction, underscoring the deep connections between players and their communities over the decades.