Not all hate is created equal in the NHL. Some players are so entertaining, so skilled, or so unapologetically themselves that even their biggest critics can’t help but respect them. Whether it was their clutch play or magnetic personality, these 7 NHL players made being hated an art form, and fans kind of loved it.
7. Jeremy Roenick
Roenick was never afraid to speak his mind, and it made him a target. But behind the chirping and controversy was a world-class scorer and an elite two-way center who made every game personal.
6. Ron Hextall
No goalie in NHL history played with more fire than Hextall. He slashed skaters, dropped the gloves, and made it clear that his crease was off-limits. He was a menace, but a wildly entertaining one.
5. Alex Ovechkin
Early in his career, Ovechkin was mocked for being flashy, showboating, and avoiding backchecks. But as the goals piled up, and the Cup finally came, fans started to appreciate that he was simply being himself all along.
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4. P.K. Subban
Subban’s charisma rubbed some traditionalists the wrong way, but he backed it up with Norris-caliber play and a heart of gold off the ice. Love him or hate him, he made hockey more fun.
3. Brendan Shanahan
Shanahan was a mix of old-school toughness and new-school scoring. He’d hit you hard, score the winner, and smile doing it. You might boo him, but you’d also want him on your team.
2. Pavel Bure
The “Russian Rocket” was criticized by some for being a one-dimensional player, but his speed and highlight-reel goals turned him into must-watch TV. Fans couldn’t stand how good he was, unless he was wearing their jersey.
1. Patrick Kane
Between off-ice controversies and on-ice showmanship, Kane has always stirred strong opinions. But when the puck drops, his magic with the stick is undeniable. Even rival fans know: Kane is one of the most clutch performers in modern hockey.
These NHL players thrived on the edge between fame and infamy. And love them or hate them, they made the NHL a lot more fun to watch.
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