The rankings for the 2026-27 NHL season have been released, with Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers taking the top spot, followed closely by Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche. These rankings utilize a sophisticated projection model that analyzes players' statistical performance over the past four seasons, emphasizing recent trends and comparing players of similar ages and ice time. Notably, Macklin Celebrini, a rookie with the San Jose Sharks, is ranked third. The rankings also account for goaltenders using a value-above-replacement metric, ensuring that their scarcity is reflected in their standings. As the NHL draft and free agency approaches, these rankings are expected to evolve, making this list a preliminary guide rather than a definitive ranking.