I would say it is hands down Chris Chelios.
Other options could be Joe Mullen-Roenick-Tckchunck-LaFontaine. Let's try to keep goalies out of it.
2007-03-15 07:24:25 · 16 answers · asked by Bob Loblaw 7 in Sports ➔ Hockey
Good pick, dude. I have to go with Chris Chelios, too. Modano definitely gets second billing, though. I'd place LaFontaine at third. Brian Leetch at fourth. And... I guess I'll go with Keith Tkachuk for fifth. Chelios wins the contest, though.
I almost said Brett Hull! But you do specifically ask for American BORN players. Technically he was born in Canada. I almost forgot.
2007-03-15 07:30:50 · answer #1 · answered by Mr. Taco 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Modano... He came in the league at 17 years old (first draft pick with Minnesota) with incredible offensive skills, had no defense, was said to be the next Gretzky (from many sports writers at that time) but he was grounded enough to buy a team concept and learn how to be a complete player... Over time his defense was just as good as his offense, his goal/assists suffered because of this AND he still has the offensive franchise records and now will be the American in the history of the game who will surpass Mullen's record.
Chelios is great, there is no question. But Chelios is no Modano. The numbers speak for themselves and the impact should be noted. Opposing teams have to contain Modano and make plans to do that... they don't for Chelios. Modano's career should not be ignored just because he plays for Dallas.
But I love Chelios... just a classy player.
2007-03-15 17:10:51 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No feud with you on this one. Modano is a reasonable pick and a 2-way player but he has had a few seasons where his head just wasn't in the game.
LaFontaine was awesome WHILE he played, but he did not last as long as the others.
Definitely not Roenick. Early in his career he was quite good, the last 10 years all he is known for is saying stupid things every time he opens his mouth.
Chelios has lasted so long, been a tremendous TEAM player and been on MULTIPLE cup winners.
2007-03-15 15:44:55 · answer #3 · answered by clueless_nerd 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think you have to widen the discussion a bit. Who is the American player with the most points? ...
Phil Housley. Although he was not on a team that won the Cup, with 1232 points he must be seriously considered. And a defenseman! Chelios is enjoying attention since he is in the league now and is getting up there in age. I might be persuaded if the Red Wings win the Cup this year.
Modano would get my vote right now. Second in career points, impact player, one Cup win.
Brian Leetch is second in points for defenseman with one Cup, almost 100 more points than Chelios but let's see where Chelly ends up for his career.
Also there is the issue of best forward and best defenseman - it is pretty difficult to say "best" and not include the issue of position.
2007-03-15 15:03:11 · answer #4 · answered by Chris G 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
See I am a little biased, being a huge Stars fan, but I would have to say that it is a tie between Chelios and Modano for me. Both guys have carried themselves with class and done so much for their respective teams over the years that it is nearly impossible for me to choose one over the other.
They're both gonna have shrines in the hall of fame either way, so I guess it doesn't matter, heh.
2007-03-15 15:03:28 · answer #5 · answered by jcwm2 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think Chris Chelios is the best american player. He has been in the NHL for a long time and is still playing very well at his age.
2007-03-15 14:33:02 · answer #6 · answered by Lawl 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Modano or Mullen
Chelios is a cheap shot pinhead who doesn't even deserve to be held in the same breath.
Roenick is a loud mouthed crybaby, see Chelios line.
2007-03-15 17:09:48 · answer #7 · answered by zaphodsclone 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Good Question I personally like Chelios,Tkchuck Mullen, Madano,Lebda ; and many many others but I think it's MY SON he only plays High School Hockey right now but I think he's the best.Professionally speaking it has to be Chelios.
2007-03-15 16:16:40 · answer #8 · answered by redwingnut16 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I like Leetch. I never gave him much credit until I saw him play for the Leafs but this guy makes playing D in the NHL look easy and he did it night in and night out.
The others are all good choices but since this is a personal opinion, I think of all the US born players Leetch is the best.
2007-03-15 18:42:03 · answer #9 · answered by PuckDat 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Modano
He's a point a game player (almost) - he's going to end up with the most points for a US born player. Could you imagine how many points he could've have if he played for a less defensive organization?
Speaking of defense, he's always a candidate for the Selke as one of the best two-way players.
2007-03-15 18:52:45 · answer #10 · answered by Sarahrex 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋