Breaking Down NHL EDGE’s Pre-Postseason Standouts
Martin Necas in a match between the Carolina Hurricanes and Seattle Kraken in Seattle on October 17, 2022. Photo credits: Jenn G.
Written By Gina Anton
NHL EDGE is an advanced tracking system that uses sensors in players’ jerseys and the puck to capture real-time data throughout games. It measures key metrics like skating speed, shot velocity, distance traveled, and puck movement, offering a deeper look at how the game is played.
As the postseason begins and the game tightens, these metrics become even more valuable, highlighting the speed, power, and consistency that tend to translate into playoff success.
Hardest Shot
At the top of the shot-speed leaderboard sits Nikita Zadorov, whose 103.9 mph blast stands as the hardest recorded shot this season.
Zadorov has built his reputation as a physically imposing, stay-at-home defenseman with a heavy shot dating back to his early years with the Buffalo Sabres and Colorado Avalanche. Now a veteran presence, his offensive value isn’t about volume, but about force. His shots consistently generate rebounds and traffic in front of the net, making him a key player for the Bruins as they head into the playoffs.
Additionally, Louis Crevier recorded the hardest goal this season at 102.5 mph, reinforcing how shot velocity from the blue line is becoming an increasingly dangerous weapon.
Max Skating Speed
Heading into the postseason, Beck Malenstyn has recorded the highest top speed in the EDGE era, hitting 24.94 mph. Malenstyn’s rise has been fueled by his role as a high-energy, bottom-six winger. Known more for forechecking and physical play than offensive production, this data highlights his ability to reach elite top speed and become a legitimate rush threat in open-ice situations.
Connor McDavid, a multi-time MVP and widely regarded as the fastest player of his generation, has also reached a top speed of 24.61 mph. His skating remains consistently elite throughout the season, which stands out among the league’s best.
Top speed creates moments, but in the postseason, those moments are rare. Players like Malenstyn can flip a game with one rush, but consistent speed threats carry more weight over the course of a series.
Burst Volume
Connor McDavid is fast constantly. From his early dominance with the Edmonton Oilers to his current role as the league’s offensive engine, his game has always been built on pace and acceleration.
621 bursts above 20 mph
133 bursts above 22 mph
Top Miles Skated
At the top of the most miles skated in a single regular-season game sits Martin Necas at 5.09 miles. His relentless pace and elite conditioning place him among the league’s most active skaters this season.
Nečas plays with constant motion, using his speed, agility, and edge work to stay involved in all areas of the ice. He excels in transition, creates offense off the rush, and tracks back quickly to support defensively. His development with NHL teams like the Carolina Hurricanes has conditioned him for this moment, where endurance and pace are critical in the postseason.
