As we wrap up the first month of the NHL season, a select few players have emerged as the league’s leading goal scorers, each showcasing unique styles, shooting tendencies, and specialized equipment that have given them an edge on the ice. From lightning-fast releases to powerful one timers, these top goal scorers are on fire and giving fans plenty to cheer about. Let’s take a close look at their gameplay, shot selections, and the hockey sticks that are powering their impressive starts this season.
1. Nico Hischier – 10 Goals
As the captain and number one center for the New Jersey Devils, Nico Hischier is known for his two-way play, hockey IQ, and knack for positioning. Hischier’s strength lies in his balanced game; he’s as reliable in the defensive zone as he is at creating scoring opportunities. Frequently positioning himself near the net, he’s adept at finishing plays with a quick snap shot. His ability to read plays and find open spaces has made him a key player for the Devils and a scoring leader this season.
The CCM Ribcor Trigger Pro’s low kick point allows Hischier to release shots rapidly, a perfect fit for his close-range game. The mid curve he uses offers versatility, excelling in stickhandling and quick shots. This facilitates finding open tight spaces to take accurate snap shots from. Weighing 375 grams, this elite stick offers maximum performance. Top-end hockey sticks boast lighter weight, superior feel, improved balance, and enhanced pop or rebound compared to lower-end models.
2. Cole Caufield – 10 Goals
Right-winger Cole Caufield of the Montreal Canadiens is known for his electrifying offensive skills and exceptional shot. Often scoring from the faceoff circles, reminiscent of Alexander Ovechkin, Caufield has mastered accuracy and release time with all the different kinds of shots he uses including one-timers. This makes him a consistent threat on the power play. His ability to find open lanes and create shooting angles adds an unpredictability element to his game, sometimes even scoring from some unusual spots of the ice like the corners near the goal line.
The Bauer Nexus Tracer’s mid-kick point offers maximum power. The P92 curve, also known as the Joe Sakic curve, is extremely popular because it helps achieve precise puck control while also offering flexibility for powerful accurate shots and saucer passes. This combination supports his fast and deceptive style, allowing him to beat goalies clean with a very hard shot despite his short size. He is able to capitalize on rapid scoring chances and maximize his effectiveness in the offensive zone every time the puck lands on his stick, even if it’s only there briefly.
3. Kyle Connor – 9 Goals
As the Winnipeg Jets’ sharp-shooting left winger, Kyle Connor is a true sniper known for his speed and pinpoint accuracy. Often scoring from the slot and during rushes, Connor excels at creating space with his agility, allowing him to release highly accurate shots. His combination of speed and precision makes him a dangerous offensive presence and a reliable goal scorer.
The CCM Ribcor Trigger 8 Pro is designed for quick-release shots, complementing Connor’s fast-paced game. The P28 curve is a toe curve which is perfect for Connor’s snap shots, with a slightly open face that enhances control and precision. It is a trending curve in the game of hockey seeing a ton of adoption recently. This setup allows him to play aggressively, releasing shots rapidly and accurately, providing extra lift and control for deceptive moves and pinpoint shots, making him a threat from anywhere in the offensive zone, particularly in the slot.
4. Nikita Kucherov – 9 Goals
Right-winger Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning is known for his creative playmaking and deadly, deceptive shot. Scoring frequently from the right circle, Kucherov is highly versatile, using a combination of snap shots and one-timers that keep goaltenders on their toes. His offensive intelligence and quick decision-making make him a key player for the Lightning both at 5 on 5 and on the powerplay.
The Bauer Vapor HyperLite’s is designed to support Kucherov’s rapid shot release, ideal for his quick, deceptive style. The popular P92 curve enables precision shooting and controlled puck handling, both of which are essential for Kucherov’s varied scoring approach. Weighing only 360 grams, this stick’s lightweight construction aligns well with Kucherov’s speed and flexibility.
5. Leon Draisaitl – 8 Goals
Leon Draisaitl, a powerhouse center for the Edmonton Oilers, is known for his strength, physical play, and a heavy shot. Often scoring from the slot, Draisaitl combines puck protection with pinpoint accuracy, using his body to create space and unleash powerful shots. His blend of finesse and strength makes him a dual threat in tight quarters, consistently putting him in scoring positions.
The Warrior Alpha LX2 Pro’s low kick point enables Draisaitl to release quick, powerful shots—ideal for his close-range, high-pressure scoring style. Draisaitl’s long and tall blade allows him to score prolifically around the net, capitalizing on feeds and rebounds from his elite linemates, Connor McDavid and Zach Hyman, particularly on the power play. The W28 curve suits his needs perfectly, allowing him to raise the puck quickly with an open face and toe component that enhances control, lift, and power. This combination makes him a consistent goal-scoring force for the Oilers, one of the best in the NHL.
Each of these players has used a combination of unique skills, playing styles, and thoughtfully chosen equipment to emerge as the NHL’s top goal scorers this season. Their stick choices, including features like quick-release kick points and carefully selected curves, amplify each player’s natural abilities and play a significant role in their early-season success. Finally, another noteworthy widely used kick point to consider is the hybrid kick point. It is used by a ton of defencemen and stars like Connor McDavid and Filip Forsberg to combine aspects of both low and mid kick points. This is typically achieved with a dual flex profile or with a larger flex area.
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