Understanding the Top 15 NHL Power Forwards in Today’s Game

Power forwards represent one of hockey’s most thrilling and impactful player archetypes. These athletes combine raw physical strength with offensive skill, creating a unique blend that can completely alter the momentum of a game. Unlike pure snipers who rely on finesse or grinders who focus solely on physical intimidation, the modern power forward must excel in multiple dimensions—scoring goals, delivering crushing hits, protecting the puck along the boards, and creating space for teammates. It’s a rare commodity in today’s NHL to find players who possess the size, strength, skill, and hockey intelligence to dominate shifts night after night.

The definition of what constitutes a power forward has evolved considerably over the decades. While legends like Cam Neely, Mark Messier, and Eric Lindros built their reputations on dropping gloves and delivering bone-rattling checks alongside their impressive scoring totals, today’s power forwards utilize their physical gifts in more nuanced ways. The emphasis has shifted from pure intimidation to leveraging size for puck protection, net-front presence on the power play, and wearing down opponents through relentless forechecking. This list celebrates both the traditional elements of power forward play and the modern evolution of this critical position, ranking the top 15 NHL power forwards currently making their mark on the league.

Understanding what defines the top 15 NHL power forwards in today’s game

The power forward position has undergone a significant transformation as the NHL has evolved into a faster, more skill-oriented league. Today’s top 15 NHL power forwards must be more than one-dimensional enforcers or scoring machines—they need to contribute across multiple facets of the game while maintaining the physical edge that defines their role.

Modern power forwards typically stand between 6-foot-1 and 6-foot-4, though exceptions exist on both ends of the spectrum. Size alone doesn’t guarantee inclusion among the top 15 NHL power forwards; these players must demonstrate the ability to use their frame effectively. This means winning puck battles along the boards, establishing net-front presence that goaltenders can’t ignore, and delivering hits that accumulate throughout a game to wear down opposing defenders. The best power forwards make opponents think twice before entering contested areas of the ice.

Offensive production remains a critical component for any player aspiring to be considered among the top 15 NHL power forwards. These aren’t fourth-line enforcers who contribute a handful of goals per season—they’re legitimate scoring threats who can reach the 20-goal plateau and beyond while maintaining their physical style. The ability to protect the puck using body positioning, drive to the net through traffic, and finish plays in tight spaces separates elite power forwards from the rest of the pack.

The physical metrics also tell an important story when evaluating the top 15 NHL power forwards. Hit totals exceeding 150 per season demonstrate sustained physical engagement, while penalty minutes indicate a willingness to stand up for teammates and play on the edge. However, excessive penalties that hurt the team undermine a player’s value, so the best power forwards walk a fine line between aggressive and reckless play.

The elite tier: top 15 NHL power forwards leading the league

Brady Tkachuk dominates as the ultimate power forward

Brady Tkachuk of the Ottawa Senators represents the gold standard for modern power forwards. From 2021 through 2024, Tkachuk consistently delivered 30-plus goals while recording over 250 hits and accumulating at least 115 penalty minutes each season. These aren’t just impressive numbers—they’re a testament to his relentless style of play that never takes a shift off.

The Senators’ captain plays the game with an edge that makes him simultaneously beloved by his teammates and despised by opponents. He’s willing to drop the gloves, crash the net, and do whatever it takes to create offensive opportunities. Following in his father Keith Tkachuk’s footsteps, Brady has become the perfect example of how the power forward archetype gets passed down through generations, though adapted for the modern game’s demands.

As Ottawa emerged from their rebuild with a playoff appearance in 2025, Tkachuk’s leadership proved invaluable. His ability to set the tone physically while contributing offensively at a first-line rate makes him irreplaceable for a young Senators squad learning what it takes to win in the NHL. When ranking the top 15 NHL power forwards, Tkachuk’s combination of scoring, physicality, and intangible qualities puts him at the very top.

At just 26 years old, Tkachuk still has room to grow his game further. His work ethic and dedication suggest that his best seasons might still lie ahead, a frightening prospect for the rest of the league. For a franchise looking to establish a winning culture, having a player like Tkachuk wearing the “C” provides the perfect foundation.

Alexander Ovechkin’s legendary career continues

Even at 39 years old, Alexander Ovechkin remains one of the most physically imposing forwards in hockey. While many consider him primarily a sniper—and rightfully so as the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer—his physical contributions throughout his career have been remarkable. Since breaking into the league, Ovechkin ranks fourth among all forwards in career hits, demonstrating that his impact extends far beyond his legendary one-timer from the left circle.

The Great Eight’s willingness to finish checks and use his body to punish opponents has been a constant throughout his Hall of Fame career. Opposing defenders know that any time they possess the puck along the boards, there’s a chance Ovechkin will arrive at full speed to deliver a crushing hit. This physical element of his game opened up space for himself and his linemates throughout his two-decade career, making him among the top 15 NHL power forwards even as he approaches retirement.

The 2024-25 season provided yet another example of Ovechkin’s remarkable durability and sustained excellence. Recording 44 goals while laying down 110 hits at age 39 defies conventional aging curves for NHL players. Most power forwards see their physical capabilities diminish significantly in their late 30s, yet Ovechkin continues to play with the intensity that defined his younger years.

Breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record in April 2025 cemented Ovechkin’s status as one of hockey’s greatest players. The fact that he achieved this milestone while maintaining the physical edge that characterized his entire career speaks to his unique combination of skill and toughness. When discussing the top 15 NHL power forwards of all time, Ovechkin’s name belongs in the conversation alongside legends like Gordie Howe and Mark Messier.

Matthew Tkachuk brings championship pedigree

Matthew Tkachuk’s evolution from pest to superstar exemplifies how modern power forwards can develop their game beyond pure physicality. Throughout his early career with Calgary, opponents viewed him as an agitator who specialized in drawing penalties and getting under opponents’ skin. While he’s maintained those elements, Tkachuk has blossomed into a legitimate offensive force capable of dominating playoff series.

His performance during the 2023 playoffs announced his arrival as an elite talent, as he led the Florida Panthers to the Stanley Cup Final with a combination of skill and sandpaper that few players in the league can match. Tkachuk scored crucial goals while also dropping the gloves when necessary, embodying everything a power forward should be. The Panthers’ subsequent Stanley Cup victories in 2024 and 2025 further validated his status among the top 15 NHL power forwards.

What makes Tkachuk particularly dangerous is his hockey IQ combined with his physical presence. He doesn’t just throw hits randomly—he uses his body strategically to create turnovers, protect the puck, and wear down opponents over the course of a seven-game series. His ability to draw penalties without taking as many as he used to shows maturity in his game while maintaining the edge that makes him so difficult to play against.

Looking ahead, Tkachuk appears poised to remain among the NHL’s elite power forwards for years to come. At 27 years old and with multiple Stanley Cup rings already secured, he’s established himself as the type of player championship teams are built around. His combination of production, physicality, and playoff performance sets the standard for what scouts look for when evaluating prospects with power forward potential.

Rising stars among the top 15 NHL power forwards

Tom Wilson’s controversial dominance

Tom Wilson remains one of hockey’s most polarizing figures, but his impact on the game is undeniable. Washington Capitals fans see a warrior who will do anything to help his team win, while opposing fan bases view him as a dirty player whose hits frequently cross the line. The truth likely sits somewhere in the middle—Wilson plays on the edge and occasionally steps over it, resulting in suspensions that have marked his career.

What can’t be disputed is Wilson’s effectiveness when he’s on the ice. His presence immediately changes how opponents approach the game, as players must constantly be aware of where number 43 is on the ice. This paranoia creates space for talented teammates like Alex Ovechkin and Dylan Strome to operate, making Wilson’s value extend beyond his personal statistics. His physical style was instrumental in the Capitals’ 2018 Stanley Cup run, cementing his status among the top 15 NHL power forwards.

The 2024-25 season saw Wilson reach new offensive heights, as he scored 30 goals for the first time in his career. This milestone demonstrated that he’s continued to develop his skill level even as he enters his 30s. Combining those 30 goals with his typical 200-plus hits created a statistical profile that few players in the league can match, validating his position among the NHL’s elite power forwards.

As Wilson ages, it will be interesting to see how his game evolves. Many power forwards struggle to maintain their physical edge as the years accumulate and their bodies absorb punishment. However, Wilson’s offensive development suggests he might be able to transition into a more skill-oriented role while maintaining enough physicality to keep opponents honest. For now, he remains one of the most impactful and controversial names when discussing the top 15 NHL power forwards.

Mathew Knies emerges as Toronto’s power forward solution

The Toronto Maple Leafs have long searched for a power forward to complement their skilled top six, and Mathew Knies appears to be the answer. After being selected in the second round of the 2021 draft, the Phoenix native quickly developed into a physical force at the University of Minnesota before making the jump to the NHL. His 6-foot-3 frame and willingness to play a hard-nosed style immediately made him a fan favorite in Toronto.

Knies’ breakout 2024-25 campaign solidified his status among the NHL’s rising power forwards. Recording 29 goals and 58 points while delivering 182 hits demonstrated his ability to contribute in multiple ways. Unlike some of Toronto’s more finesse-oriented stars, Knies embraces the physical battle required in playoff hockey, making him particularly valuable when the games matter most. His development has been crucial as the Maple Leafs look to break through and win their first Stanley Cup since 1967.

What makes Knies particularly exciting is his age—at just 22 years old, he’s only beginning to scratch the surface of his potential. Most power forwards don’t reach their prime until their mid-to-late 20s when they’ve fully grown into their bodies and learned how to leverage their size effectively. If Knies continues his current trajectory, he could become one of the premier power forwards in the league and a fixture among the top 15 NHL power forwards for years to come.

Playing on a line with Auston Matthews or John Tavares provides Knies with excellent linemates who can capitalize on the space he creates through his physical play. As he approaches the 30-goal threshold that distinguishes good power forwards from great ones, expectations will continue to rise. For a Maple Leafs franchise desperate for playoff success, having a homegrown power forward who can impose his will in the postseason represents a valuable asset.

Kiefer Sherwood’s hitting machine mentality

If hits were currency, Kiefer Sherwood would be among the NHL’s wealthiest players. The Vancouver Canucks forward led the entire league with 462 hits during the 2024-25 season—a staggering total that was 150 more than the second-place finisher. This relentless physical engagement makes Sherwood a nightmare to play against, as opposing players know they’ll be dealing with contact all night long whenever he’s on the ice.

Despite his relatively modest 5-foot-11 stature, Sherwood plays considerably bigger than his listed height suggests. He’s proof that being among the top 15 NHL power forwards isn’t solely about size—it’s about attitude and willingness to engage physically on every shift. His approach to the game harkens back to earlier eras when forwards were expected to finish every check regardless of the score or situation.

Sherwood’s offensive contributions shouldn’t be overlooked despite the focus on his physical game. Recording 19 goals and 40 points while averaging nearly 15 minutes of ice time per game shows he’s not just a fourth-line enforcer. The Canucks utilize him in meaningful situations because he can contribute offensively while maintaining the physical edge that defines his game. This versatility makes him a valuable piece for a Vancouver team with Stanley Cup aspirations.

For fantasy hockey players who participate in leagues that count hits, Sherwood has become must-own property. His consistency in delivering 400-plus hits per season while chipping in respectable goal and point totals provides value that doesn’t show up in traditional box scores. As he continues his career with Vancouver, Sherwood’s unique combination of skill and physicality ensures his place among the conversation about the top 15 NHL power forwards.

Veterans maintaining their status among top 15 NHL power forwards

Jamie Benn’s resilience in Dallas

Throughout his 16-year NHL career, Jamie Benn has exemplified what hard work and determination can accomplish. Drafted in the fifth round in 2007, the Victoria, British Columbia native was far from a sure thing to even make the NHL, let alone become a franchise cornerstone for the Dallas Stars. His journey from late-round pick to Art Ross Trophy winner and team captain represents one of hockey’s great success stories.

Benn’s game has always centered on using his 6-foot-2 frame to dominate along the boards and in front of the net. He established himself early in his career as a player willing to drop the gloves with anyone while also possessing the skill to lead the league in scoring, which he accomplished in 2014-15. This rare combination of toughness and talent secured his reputation as one of the era’s premier power forwards.

After several seasons where it appeared his best days were behind him, Benn enjoyed a resurgence in 2022-23 with 33 goals and 78 points to go along with 97 hits. He’s followed that performance with back-to-back campaigns of roughly 40 points and 100-plus hits, proving he can still contribute meaningfully for a Stars team with championship aspirations. At 36 years old, his continued presence among the top 15 NHL power forwards speaks to his durability and sustained commitment to playing a physical brand of hockey.

Benn’s leadership has been instrumental in Dallas’ recent success, as the Stars have consistently been one of the Western Conference’s most dangerous teams. Young players on the roster can look to their captain for an example of how to play the game the right way—with an edge and intensity that never wavers regardless of the score or situation. As he enters the twilight of his career, Benn’s legacy as one of the great Dallas Stars players is secure.

Blake Coleman’s undersized power play

Blake Coleman proves that you don’t need to be 6-foot-4 to play like a power forward. Standing just 5-foot-11, the Calgary Flames forward has built his career on playing considerably bigger than his frame suggests. His willingness to go into high-traffic areas, absorb punishment, and dish out hits has made him one of the league’s most respected competitors despite lacking prototypical size.

Coleman’s defining moment came during the Tampa Bay Lightning’s 2020 Stanley Cup run, when his diving, series-clinching goal against Dallas became one of the iconic images of that championship. It perfectly encapsulated everything that makes Coleman special—a willingness to sacrifice his body and do whatever it takes to help his team win. His contributions to back-to-back championships with Tampa Bay cemented his reputation as a winning player.

The 2023-24 season represented Coleman’s best offensive campaign, as he recorded 30 goals and 54 points while laying down 128 hits for the Calgary Flames. This performance demonstrated that he continues to develop his offensive game even as he enters his 30s. While the 2024-25 season saw some regression in his production, players with Coleman’s competitive makeup tend to bounce back quickly.

For teams looking to add grit and experience to their lineup, Coleman represents an ideal target. His championship pedigree and willingness to play the hardest minutes make him valuable beyond what traditional statistics capture. As discussions about the top 15 NHL power forwards continue, Coleman’s name deserves inclusion based on his impact on winning and his refusal to let size limitations define his game.

Will Cuylle’s meteoric rise with the Rangers

Every season seems to produce a surprise player who bursts onto the scene and forces their way into conversations about the league’s best power forwards. For the 2024-25 campaign, that player was Will Cuylle of the New York Rangers. The 6-foot-3 forward played his second full NHL season with a physical intensity that immediately made him one of the league’s most feared hitters.

Cuylle’s 301 hits tied for third-most in the entire league, an remarkable total for a player still establishing himself as an NHL regular. What makes this even more impressive is that he accomplished this while also recording 20 goals and 45 points, proving he’s capable of contributing offensively while maintaining his physical edge. This combination of production and punishment is exactly what teams look for when evaluating potential elite power forwards.

The Ontario native plays the game with a controlled aggression that suggests hockey intelligence beyond his years. Rather than taking bad penalties or making reckless decisions, Cuylle picks his spots to deliver hits that change momentum without putting his team at a disadvantage. This discipline is rare in young power forwards who are still learning how to harness their physical gifts appropriately.

Looking ahead, Cuylle’s ceiling appears remarkably high. If he can increase his goal-scoring totals into the mid-20s while maintaining his physical presence, he’ll establish himself as a perennial fixture among the top 15 NHL power forwards. The Rangers’ decision to give him significant ice time and important responsibilities demonstrates their faith in his development. For a team with championship aspirations, having a young power forward like Cuylle who can dominate in playoff hockey represents a significant advantage.

Physical enforcers earning spots among top 15 NHL power forwards

Mathieu Olivier’s tough guy evolution

The line between enforcer and power forward has always been somewhat blurry, and Mathieu Olivier represents a player who straddles that divide. The Columbus Blue Jackets forward is widely regarded as the toughest man in the NHL, evidenced by his 139 penalty minutes during the 2024-25 season. When it comes to dropping the gloves, few players in the league are willing to challenge Olivier, who has built a fearsome reputation as someone who can handle himself against anyone.

What elevates Olivier beyond mere enforcer status and into power forward territory is his offensive contributions. Recording 18 goals during the 2024-25 campaign while averaging over 14 minutes of ice time per game shows that Columbus trusts him in meaningful situations. He’s not relegated to fourth-line minutes or only deployed when the team needs someone to fight—he’s a legitimate part of the Blue Jackets’ forward rotation who can chip in offensively.

Olivier’s 306 hits during the 2024-25 season ranked among the league leaders, demonstrating his sustained physical engagement throughout the 82-game schedule. Opposing players must account for his location on the ice at all times, knowing that any puck possession along the boards could result in a thunderous hit. This intimidation factor creates space for more skilled linemates to operate, making Olivier’s impact extend beyond his personal statistics.

The key question surrounding Olivier is whether his 18-goal campaign represents his new baseline or if it was an outlier season. If he can consistently score in the 15-20 goal range while maintaining his physical presence, he’ll continue to earn recognition among the top 15 NHL power forwards. For a Blue Jackets team trying to build a winning culture, having someone like Olivier who sets the tone physically every night provides invaluable leadership.

Dylan Holloway’s offer sheet gamble pays off

When the St. Louis Blues extended an offer sheet to Dylan Holloway during the 2024 offseason, many viewed it as a calculated risk. The Edmonton Oilers chose not to match, allowing Holloway to join a Blues organization in the midst of rebuilding. While he had shown flashes of potential during his time in Edmonton, particularly during their deep playoff runs, questions remained about whether he could handle a larger role with increased responsibilities.

Holloway immediately silenced any doubters with a spectacular 2024-25 season. Recording 26 goals and 63 points in 77 games played exceeded even the most optimistic projections for the 24-year-old forward. His 165 hits demonstrated that he hadn’t abandoned the physical elements of his game despite the increased offensive production. This combination of scoring and physicality is exactly what teams dream about when they draft power forward prospects.

What makes Holloway’s situation particularly exciting is his age and trajectory. At just 24 years old, he’s still developing his game and learning how to maximize his 6-foot-1, 203-pound frame. Most power forwards don’t reach their prime until their mid-to-late 20s, suggesting that Holloway’s best seasons might still lie ahead. If he can build on his breakout campaign and approach the 30-goal mark, he’ll firmly establish himself among the elite power forwards in the league.

The Blues’ rebuild hinges partially on whether young players like Holloway can continue their development and form the core of the next competitive Blues roster. His willingness to play a physical brand of hockey while contributing offensively at a top-six rate makes him a foundational piece moving forward. For Edmonton, watching Holloway thrive in St. Louis must sting as they could have used his skillset during their championship pursuits.

Veteran power forwards extending their careers

Chris Kreider’s championship pursuit continues

Few players have been as consistently productive over the past decade as Chris Kreider. The New York Rangers forward has combined excellent skating ability with a willingness to drive the net and absorb punishment in pursuit of goals. His career has been defined by scoring from the dirty areas around the crease, using his 6-foot-3 frame to establish position and create chaos for opposing goaltenders.

The 2019-20 season saw Kreider earn a seven-year contract extension from the Rangers after recording 24 goals in 57 games. This commitment reflected New York’s belief that he would remain among the league’s top power forwards throughout his 30s. For several seasons, that faith appeared well-founded as Kreider continued posting 20-plus goal campaigns while delivering 100-plus hits annually.

However, the 2024-25 season proved challenging for both Kreider and the Rangers organization. While he managed 22 goals, a back injury cost him significant time and raised questions about his durability moving forward. Years of crashing the net and absorbing contact take their toll on a player’s body, and at 34 years old, Kreider’s best days appear to be behind him. The Rangers’ decision to trade him to the Anaheim Ducks represented an acknowledgment that their championship window with their current core had closed.

Kreider’s fresh start in Anaheim provides an opportunity to prove he still has something left in the tank. The Ducks are a young team on the rise, and veteran leadership from a player who has been to multiple Eastern Conference Finals could prove valuable. While he may no longer belong in discussions about the very best power forwards in the league, Kreider’s career accomplishments and sustained excellence earn him a spot among the top 15 NHL power forwards still playing today.

Corey Perry’s unprecedented longevity

At 40 years old, Corey Perry has defied Father Time in ways few players ever accomplish. The Anaheim Ducks bought out his contract during the 2019 offseason after years of declining production, leading many to believe his NHL career was effectively over. Instead, Perry has somehow managed to reach the Stanley Cup Final four times in five years with four different franchises, earning a reputation as both a good luck charm and a player who still knows how to elevate his game when the stakes are highest.

Perry’s 2024-25 regular season was nothing short of remarkable for a player his age. Appearing in all 82 games and recording 30 points demonstrated durability that players half his age would envy. He followed that performance with 22 more playoff games where he scored 10 additional goals, proving once again that he saves his best hockey for the postseason. The Los Angeles Kings clearly saw value in his experience and leadership, signing him to another one-year contract for the 2025-26 season.

What makes Perry particularly maddening for opponents is his ability to get under their skin. He’s mastered every trick in the book when it comes to agitating opponents—subtle slashes, strategic positioning in the crease, and perfectly timed comments that draw penalties. While he may no longer possess the speed or skill level that made him an MVP winner earlier in his career, Perry’s hockey IQ and competitive fire remain elite.

Including Perry among the top 15 NHL power forwards at age 40 might seem generous, but his sustained impact on winning cannot be ignored. Teams continue to want him on their roster because they know he’ll do whatever it takes to help them win championships. His four consecutive Finals appearances with different franchises represent an unprecedented achievement that speaks to his adaptability and value beyond traditional statistics.

Evander Kane’s injury-plagued tenure

Evander Kane’s NHL career has been defined by incredible talent overshadowed by off-ice issues and unfortunate injuries. When healthy and focused, Kane possesses all the tools to be among the league’s most dominant power forwards—excellent skating, a deadly shot, and willingness to play physically. The San Jose Sharks recognized this potential when they signed him to a seven-year, $49 million extension in 2018, viewing him as a cornerstone piece for their franchise.

Off-ice problems led to his contract termination in San Jose, but Kane found redemption after signing with the Edmonton Oilers. During the 2022 playoffs, he led the entire postseason in goals, demonstrating that his talent hadn’t diminished. His physical style and net-front presence provided exactly what the Oilers needed to complement their skilled top six, making him a key part of their deep playoff runs.

Injuries have derailed Kane’s recent seasons, most notably when he missed the entirety of the 2024-25 regular season. Missing an entire year at age 33 raises serious questions about whether he can recapture his previous form. The Oilers eventually traded him to the Vancouver Canucks, giving him another opportunity to prove he still belongs in the NHL. For Kane, staying healthy has become the primary challenge in extending his career.

When evaluating the top 15 NHL power forwards, Kane’s inclusion depends heavily on whether he can return to full health. If the player who led the 2022 playoffs in goals returns, he absolutely deserves recognition among the league’s elite power forwards. However, if injuries continue to mount, his days as an impact player may be numbered. The coming season will prove crucial in determining whether Kane can resurrect his career or if his best days are permanently behind him.

The impact of top 15 NHL power forwards on team success

Power forwards provide value that extends far beyond traditional statistics like goals and assists. Their presence changes how opponents must structure their defensive coverage and prepare game plans. Teams facing elite power forwards must decide whether to match up their top defensive pair against them or use more physical shutdown defenders who might struggle with faster, more skilled forwards.

The playoff impact of top power forwards becomes even more pronounced. As games slow down and referees allow more physical play, players who can impose their will along the boards and in front of the net become difference-makers. Nearly every Stanley Cup champion in recent years has featured at least one elite power forward who dominated the difficult minutes and wore down opponents over seven-game series.

Developing power forwards takes patience from NHL organizations. Unlike skilled playmakers who might make immediate impacts as teenagers, power forwards often need time to grow into their bodies and learn how to leverage their size effectively. Teams that draft prospects with power forward potential must resist the temptation to rush their development, instead allowing them to marinate in junior hockey or the AHL until they’re physically ready for the NHL’s demands.

The salary cap era has made power forwards particularly valuable because they’re difficult to replace. A team can survive losing a depth scorer by promoting from within or making a minor trade. Replacing a 25-goal power forward who delivers 200 hits and dominates physically isn’t so simple. This scarcity drives up the value of players who can fill this role, making them attractive trade deadline targets for contending teams looking to add that final piece.

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The landscape of the top 15 NHL power forwards continues to evolve as new players emerge and veterans adapt their games. The modern power forward must be more versatile than ever before, combining the physicality that defines the position with skating ability and offensive skill that previous generations didn’t require. As the league continues trending toward speed and skill, those rare players who can match that pace while also dominating physically become increasingly valuable.

For teams hoping to build championship rosters, identifying and developing power forwards remains a critical component of roster construction. Whether through the draft, trades, or free agency, acquiring players who can play that style represents a significant competitive advantage. As we look ahead to future seasons, the next generation of power forwards like Mathew Knies and Dylan Holloway will continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible from this position, ensuring that the archetype remains central to NHL success for years to come.