Hockey players are usually known for being humble, gritty, and team-first kind of guys. But every now and then, the NHL gives us a few who love the spotlight just as much as they love dangling around defensemen.
Whether it’s chirping the opponent, flexing after a goal, or letting the media know they’re that guy, these players didn’t just play with confidence — they made sure everyone else knew it too. Let’s count down the 15 cockiest NHL players of all time, from smirks to soundbites to flat-out swagger.
15. Jeremy Roenick
Roenick was never shy about saying what was on his mind, even if it ruffled feathers. He was as entertaining off the ice as he was on it — and he knew it.
14. Matthew Tkachuk
Tkachuk has built a career on being annoying — and loving every second of it. Whether he’s scoring goals or stirring the pot, he always looks like he’s in on some inside joke.
13. P.K. Subban
Subban’s flash, flair, and fashion sense made him one of the league’s biggest personalities. He played the game with style and never cared much for playing it safe.
12. Evander Kane
Kane’s confidence has been well-documented both on and off the ice. He’s always played with a chip on his shoulder and a “watch me prove you wrong” attitude.
11. Sean Avery
Avery made his NHL career out of being a menace, and he absolutely leaned into the villain role. Cocky? Yes. Effective? Also yes — until it caught up with him.
10. Patrick Roy
Roy didn’t just think he was the best — he’d straight-up tell you. The guy once chirped Jeremy Roenick by saying, “I can’t hear him with my two Stanley Cup rings plugging my ears.”
9. Brad Marchand
Marchand talks a ton of smack, licks opponents (literally), and celebrates like he’s the main character in a hockey movie. You can’t stand him unless he’s on your team — then you love him.
8. Chris Pronger
Pronger was dominant and made sure you knew it every time he stepped on the ice. His on-ice smirk alone probably caused a few fights.
7. Artemi Panarin
The Breadman plays like he’s in a video game and grins like he knows he’s better than you. His confidence is almost as smooth as his puck-handling.
6. Alex Ovechkin
Ovi’s “hot stick” goal celebration is the stuff of legend. He scores like a machine and celebrates like it’s his first — every single time.
5. Auston Matthews
Between the mustache, the designer fits, and the cellys, Matthews gives off major “main character” energy. He doesn’t just want to be great — he wants to look good doing it.
4. Ilya Bryzgalov
Bryz was out there talking about the universe and humoring reporters with cosmic takes. The guy marched to his own drum and thought the media was lucky just to hear him speak.
3. Connor Bedard (Too Early? Maybe Not.)
Sure, he’s young, but Bedard already carries himself like he knows he’s the future of the NHL. The kid doesn’t smile much — because he’s too busy cooking defenders.
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2. Patrick Kane
Kane’s mitts are ridiculous, and he absolutely knows it. From his shootout swagger to his casual celebrations, he’s been ice-cold and cocky since day one.
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1. Wayne Gretzky
The Great One wasn’t loud, but make no mistake — he knew he was the greatest. When you’re that dominant, you don’t need to chirp — your resume does the talking.
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