Comparing McDavid’s 20-Game Streak to Crosby’s 25-Game 2011 Run

In recent months, the world of hockey has been captivated by the exceptional performances of two of its greatest players: Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid. Each of these athletes has demonstrated remarkable skill during respective point streaks, making comparisons inevitable.

Comparing McDavid’s 20-Game Streak to Crosby’s 25-Game 2011 Run

Sidney Crosby achieved a monumental feat fifteen years ago, posting a 25-game point streak that included 25 goals and 50 points. This stretch set a high standard within the salary cap era, showcasing the pinnacle of consistent excellence in the NHL.

Fast forward to December 4, Connor McDavid established his dominance with a stunning 20-game point streak. This remarkable achievement marked McDavid as the fourth player in the salary cap era to reach a 20-game point streak.

Statistical Highlights

• Crosby (2011): 25 games, 25 goals, 50 points.
• McDavid (2023): 20 games, 19 goals, 46 points.

Though McDavid’s stretch falls short in length compared to Crosby’s, his performance has been nothing short of phenomenal. McDavid’s 20-game output stands as the highest in his career, surpassing his previous best of 44 points during a similar duration. This pace translates to an incredible 189 points across a full season.

Assessing Performance Metrics

Statistically, McDavid’s accomplishments extend beyond mere points. His expected goals (xG) rate is an impressive 65 percent, having generated 17.6 expected goals from 102 shots. McDavid’s play has notably influenced the Edmonton Oilers’ power play, producing 17.6 goals per 60 minutes of play.

• Five-on-Five Performance:
• McDavid: +22 on scoresheet, 4.05 goals per 60 compared to 4.99 expected goals.
• Crosby: +30 on scoresheet, 8.9 goals per 60 on power plays.

While Crosby garnered better results at five-on-five, his xG rate lingered at 55 percent, and his power-play output was notably lower than McDavid’s, leading to a comparative advantage for the latter.

Impact on the League

During McDavid’s streak, he has recorded a remarkable Net Rating of +52 per 82 games. Comparatively, Nikita Kucherov, who ranks second, holds a rating of +41. This statistic illustrates McDavid’s significant advantage over his peers. In total, he has proven to be 27 percent better than Kucherov and an astonishing 79 percent superior to the average of the top ten forwards.

Crosby’s historic 25-game streak has long been regarded as the benchmark of excellence in the NHL. However, as McDavid approaches Crosby’s record, hockey enthusiasts anticipate the potential for a new standard. If McDavid can maintain his current form for another five games, he could redefine what it means to achieve greatness in the league.

As McDavid continues this remarkable streak, fans worldwide are witnessing historic performances that further solidify his legacy as one of hockey’s all-time greats.