Connor McDavid continues to earn remarkable praise despite approaching his 30th birthday. NHL analyst Mike Johnson believes the Edmonton Oilers captain remains the best player in hockey and still has many elite seasons ahead.
Speaking on NHL Tonight on NHL Network, Johnson explained why McDavid ranked third on his list of players to start a franchise. The rankings placed Macklin Celebrini first and Matthew Schaefer second despite McDavid's current dominance.
Johnson left no doubt about his opinion of McDavid's ability.
"He's the bona fide best player in the world. It's Connor McDavid," Johnson said. "And I know he's a little bit older, but he's still the greatest player. He's not yet 30. He's going to be incredible for another half decade or more."
Johnson then delivered his strongest praise. "He is the most evolved species of hockey player that there has ever been," he said.
He also pointed to McDavid's competitiveness, saying, "A burning desire to win. Yes. It's white hot. He demands it from himself and everyone else."
McDavid backed those comments with another dominant season. He led the NHL with 138 points, including 48 goals and 90 assists, to capture his sixth Art Ross Trophy. He also recorded his ninth career 100-point season, joining Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux as the only players with at least nine.
Johnson believes McDavid's preparation separates him from every other star. "His trophy case is already overflowing," he said. "I'm not worried about his age. The way he skates, the way he trains."
Johnson added, "He is very intense about being prepared every year. So I have a decade of great McDavid left."
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McDavid has also guided Edmonton to consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances in 2024 and 2025. His leadership has grown alongside his offensive production.
Johnson's ranking focused on long-term franchise building rather than current talent alone. Even so, his comments reinforced McDavid's place at the top of today's NHL. Few players combine elite production, relentless preparation, and leadership as consistently as the Oilers captain.
