Connor McDavid's rank Shocker: ESPN's mistake ignites the hockey world
Photo credit: Oil On Whyte
In a move that has stirred controversy and debate, ESPN recently unveiled its list of the 100 best athletes of the 21st century, placing NHL superstar Connor McDavid at a surprisingly low 98th.
This decision has sparked a backlash from hockey enthusiasts and sports analysts alike, who view it as a gross underestimation of McDavid's prowess and impact on the sport.
Despite his remarkable credentials, including 982 points in 645 NHL games and an impressive 117 points in 74 playoff games, McDavid's placement on the list has been perceived as not only a slight to his individual talent but also to the sport of hockey itself.
ESPN, a network often criticized for its perceived marginalization of hockey compared to the NFL, MLB, and NBA, seems to have underscored that sentiment with McDavid's ranking.
Connor McDavid, the unparalleled talent in today's NHL, finds himself positioned alarmingly low at 98th, a spot that many argue is unfit for someone of his calibre.
Renowned for his speed, skill, and strategic play, McDavid has dominated the NHL scene, consistently proving himself as a top contender and the face of hockey excellence.
The ranking has drawn particular ire in light of McDavid's achievements, including leading his team to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Critics, including journalist David Staples, have pointed out the peculiarity of ranking numerous WNBA players ahead of McDavid, highlighting the unique challenges and competitive nature of hockey.
Staples expressed his astonishment over the ranking in a tweet, which further fueled the ongoing discussions around ESPN's valuation of different sports disciplines.
Even more puzzling is McDavid's juxtaposition with NFL player Ed Reed in the rankings. While Reed is celebrated in his own right, comparing his influence and iconic status to McDavid's seems to many as a mismatch, underscoring what some believe to be an inconsistency in ESPN's ranking criteria.
The controversy surrounding the list not only questions ESPN's criteria but also underscores a broader issue of sports recognition and the valuation of athletes across different disciplines.
McDavid's ranking is not just a reflection of his own career but also of how hockey is perceived relative to other major sports.
As discussions continue, this ranking may prompt a reevaluation of how athletes' contributions and their sports' profiles are measured and appreciated in the broader sports landscape.
By placing McDavid at 98th, ESPN has certainly sparked a debate that transcends the list itself, challenging fans and pundits to reflect on what truly defines athletic greatness in the 21st century.
Previously on HawksLatest
POLL |
19 JUILLET | 53 ANSWERS Connor McDavid's rank Shocker: ESPN's mistake ignites the hockey world Do you think ESPN disrespected Connor McDavid? |
Yes | 27 | 50.9 % |
No | 26 | 49.1 % |
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