EA Sports has kicked off its highly anticipated NHL 25 Team of the Season (TOTS) recognition program, spotlighting the league's most dominant performers during the 2024-25 campaign. This marks the first of three weekly reveals honoring hockey's elite.

Star-Studded First Wave

The inaugural selections feature six superstars who have elevated their games this season:

• Connor Hellebuyck (G, Winnipeg Jets - 94 OVR)
• Cale Makar (D, Colorado Avalanche - 94 OVR)
• Zach Werenski (D, Columbus Blue Jackets - 94 OVR)
• Nikita Kucherov (RW, Tampa Bay Lightning - 94 OVR)
• Leon Draisaitl (C, Edmonton Oilers - 94 OVR)
• Nathan MacKinnon (C, Colorado Avalanche - 94 OVR)

Offensive Firepower

MacKinnon, Kucherov, and Draisaitl currently pace the NHL's scoring race, demonstrating remarkable consistency and clutch performance. Their inclusion reinforces their status as the game's most dangerous offensive weapons.

Defensive Dominance

Makar continues to redefine modern defenseman play, leading all blueliners in scoring. Werenski holds second place among defensemen, showing remarkable two-way play for Columbus.

Goaltending Greatness

Hellebuyck stands atop the goaltending leaderboard, boasting league-best numbers in wins, save percentage (.927), and goals-against average (2.18).

Historical Context

This marks the fourth consecutive TOTS appearance for MacKinnon and third for Kucherov, cementing their legacy among NHL greats. All six players are strong candidates for end-of-season awards.

Ovechkin Tribute

In related news, EA Sports celebrated Alex Ovechkin's record-breaking 895th career goal by revealing that virtual versions of "Ovi" have scored over 216 million goals across NHL video games from 2007-2025.

Additional TOTS reveals will occur over the next two weeks, with analysts anticipating more elite talent recognition. The final roster will feature 20 total players across all positions.

Editor's Note: All player ratings reflect their current in-game performance levels and may adjust based on remaining regular season play.