Quote:
Originally Posted by 1qqaaz
And McDavid is playing against a much more diluted talent pool. When Gretzky played, there was half as many teams in the league.
Even strength performance is another big factor to consider.
I don't think McDavid should be anywhere near the Mount Rushmore of hockey. Guys like Orr, Lemieux and Howe are also way ahead.
|
To counter that point, consider the following.
Goaltending back then was a joke compared to now. Fitness and general athleticism is much, much better now, and that's especially important if you're checking and defending.
But also, there are tighter restrictions on interference, slashing, hooking, holding etc. that hinder offensive players compared to Gretzky's era.
There are pros and cons to each era, but talent is talent, and you have to admit it when you see it. McDavid is supremely talented. If he wins a championship or two, you'll have to put him up there with the greatest of all time (yuck).