With the 2025 Hockey Hall of Fame class set to be announced amid a packed NHL schedule that includes the Stanley Cup Final and the upcoming NHL Draft, fans and analysts alike are turning their attention to one big question: who’s getting the call this year—and who’s still waiting?
Each year, a group of deserving former players, coaches, and executives await a call from a Toronto-based 416 number that could forever change their lives. While some receive the honor, others are left waiting—yet again. In this piece, we highlight 10 long-overlooked NHL legends whose Hall of Fame cases are still up for debate. From elite scorers and pioneering defenders to underappreciated goalies and iconic leaders, these names continue to stir debate among fans and voters alike.
Patrik Elias
A driving force behind the New Jersey Devils’ Cup runs, Elias led the team in scoring during its defensive dynasty era. Despite strong metrics and playoff success, Elias remains on the outside looking in, with few signs of momentum toward induction.
John LeClair
During the heart of the Dead Puck Era, LeClair was one of the NHL’s premier goal scorers, trailing only Jaromir Jagr in goals from 1994–2000. Still, his dominance during that stretch has been overlooked, and his overall point totals have held him back.
Rod Brind’Amour
While his coaching success is undeniable, Brind’Amour’s playing career remains a borderline case. But with both coaching and player contributions considered, he may eventually get the nod as voters shift perspectives on hybrid candidates.
Sergei Gonchar
Gonchar was one of the most productive offensive defensemen of his era, often second only to Nicklas Lidstrom. Advanced analytics like PPS place him squarely in Hall of Fame territory. His time may yet come.
Curtis Joseph
“Cujo” finished his career fourth all-time in wins, and yet never quite had the playoff pedigree or Vezina hardware to push him into the Hall. Despite solid advanced stats, recent goalie inductions may have already passed him by.
Keith Tkachuk
One of the most prolific American-born goal scorers, Tkachuk boasts 538 goals and near-identical credentials to Jeremy Roenick, who was inducted recently. The tide may turn in his favor soon.
Jennifer Botterill
Botterill dominated in both NCAA and international play, winning multiple gold medals with Team Canada. With momentum building for more women's inductees, her call to the Hall feels imminent.
Theo Fleury
Despite scoring 1,000 points and winning both a Cup and Olympic gold, Fleury’s post-career controversies have overshadowed his on-ice achievements, likely keeping him out indefinitely.
Paul Henderson
Famous for his 1972 Summit Series heroics, Henderson is a Canadian folk hero—but his overall career numbers haven’t justified induction. With anniversaries and health struggles now behind him, his window may be closed.
Alexander Mogilny
A trailblazer in every sense, Mogilny not only scored 76 goals in a single season but also defected from the Soviet Union to pave the way for future generations. His credentials are airtight—he remains the most glaring omission in the Hall’s modern history.
The Hockey Hall of Fame isn't just about points and trophies—it's about legacy. These players made lasting impacts on the game and deserve deeper consideration. As the Hall evolves, so too should its criteria for what defines greatness.
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#HockeyHallOfFame #NHLHistory #HallOfFameSnubs #RodBrindAmour #AlexanderMogilny #TheoFleury #KeithTkachuk #PatrikElias #SergeiGonchar #JenniferBotterill #Cujo #NHL2025 #HockeyLegends #UnderratedNHLStars #HockeyDebate
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