As the 2024-25 National Hockey League season commences, hockey legends Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin mark an amazing 20 years on the ice! While this extraordinary milestone represents an exceptional achievement for these legendary figures, more games still need to be played before establishing themselves as players with longest careers ever seen in NHL history. We shall examine some notable benchmarks set forth for career longevity throughout its rich history.
At the forefront of NHL History lies Chris Chelios and Gordie Howe with 26 seasons played each, followed closely by Mark Messier with 25.
The Esteemed 24-Season Club A distinguished group that dedicated 24 seasons to the sport includes Tim Horton, Alex Delvecchio, Zdeno Chara, Joe Thornton, and Jaromir Jagr, showcasing their enduring talent and commitment to hockey.
Veterans of 23 Seasons The legacy of dedication continues with Al MacInnis, Johnny Bucyk, Dave Andreychuk, Ron Francis, and Patrick Marleau, each bringing 23 seasons of passion and exemplary performance to the NHL.
Legends with 22 Seasons An outstanding roster has reached 22 seasons of playing hockey: Ray Whitney, Dean Prentice, Doug Mohns, Stan Mikita, Steve Yzerman Ray Bourque Scott Stevens and Mark Recchi – each leaving their mark on the game in some significant way.
Stalwarts Nearing the Two-Decade Mark Not far behind are players like Brent Burns, Marc-Andre Fleury, Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, Corey Perry Ryan Suter and Jack Johnson as they enter their 21st seasons with the NHL. Anze Kopitar Kris Letang Evgeni Malkin Jordan Staal Vlasic all are close behind with 19 season completed and look closer than ever to crossing this amazing mark!