NHL Hall of Fame 2025: Carey Price, Joe Thornton, P.K. Subban lead a star-studded first-ballot lineup | NHL News
The 2025 Hockey Hall of Fame could be a rare occasion where a number of legends are inducted in the very first year of their eligibility. Splitters on this year’s eligible list have historic names who have forged the modern NHL history. Players of this stature didn’t just contest excellence, from world-class goaltending to brilliant playmaking and defense; they set a new standard for it. As the spotlight shifts to this year’s selection, a few stars seem perfectly poised to make immediate history with a first-ballot induction.
Elite hall of famers-in-waiting for 2025: Carey Price , P.K. Subban , Joe Thornton , Tuukka Rask , and Ryan Getzlaf
Among the big giveaways for Price is longevity and stature at the goaltender position. He played for 15 long seasons with the Montreal Canadiens, winning 361 times with 49 shutouts. Those were numbers. Beyond these, Price has six major trophies under his belt, which spells that he was the most reliable goalie in the modern age to many.In defense, Subban brought style and quality over 13 National Hockey League (NHL) seasons. He split the years of his career among Montreal, Nashville, and New Jersey, gathering 467 points and also securing the prestigious Norris Trophy–best defenseman. On-field, Subban was impactful; off-field, he contributed to the game’s popularity.The forward, Joe Thornton, racked up over 1,500 points in a stunning 24-year career. A franchise player for several teams, such as the San Jose Sharks and the Boston Bruins, Thornton’s leadership and supreme passing ability sealed his receipt of the Hart Memorial and Art Ross Trophies. No player has been able to compete with such foresight and consistency for two decades.Another exceptional character, Ryan Getzlaf, played a very important role in leading the Anaheim Ducks to win the Stanley Cup. Known to consistently be in the offensive zone and having passed the 1,000 career points mark, he does not have a lengthy list of awards; however, his captaincy status and solid leadership on the ice will continue to keep him in the conversation for the Hall of Fame. Completing the list is Tuukka Rask, known for his accurate technique while under the goal. The former Boston Bruins goalie attained a splendid .921 save percentage and recorded 52 shutouts. The former Vezina Trophy winner is considered among the most reliable goaltenders of his time.Also Read: NHL trade rumor: Jonathan Toews reportedly choosing between Jets and AvalancheMotivated by such a rich lineup of gala careers going through the election, the Hockey Hall of Fame for 2025 will likely have several first-ballot inductees. Some of the candidates bring an essence of quiet brilliance embodied by Carey Price as well as offensive genius by Joe Thornton himself.
