RO
Ryan O'Connor
February 4, 2026
Speed has always been valuable in hockey, but today's NHL features skaters who use elite speed as a devastating weapon. These players change games with their ability to create separation.
Modern training methods and equipment advances have produced faster skaters than ever before. They use their speed both offensively to beat defenders and defensively to disrupt opposing attacks.
Teams are prioritizing speed in their roster construction, recognizing that foot speed translates to success in today's up-tempo NHL. The fastest skaters create mismatches that opposing teams struggle to contain.