The NHL's top performers for November have been recognized, highlighting the standout efforts of some of the league’s brightest stars. But here’s where it gets controversial—do these monthly honors truly capture the most deserving players, or are there overlooked talents that should be in the spotlight? Let’s delve into the stories behind the NHL’s 'Three Stars' for November, presented by GEICO, and see what makes these athletes exceptional. And most importantly, what do you think? Do you agree with these selections, or is someone missing from this list?
First Star: Nathan MacKinnon (Center, Colorado Avalanche)
MacKinnon dominated the ice during November, ranking among the league leaders in multiple key statistics. He led the league in EVEN-STRENGTH points with 20, and his +20 plus/minus rating underscored his defensive impact. Additionally, he finished nearly at the top in overall points (tied for first with 26), assists at even strength (second with 11), and goals (third with 11). MacKinnon’s efficiency was evident as he contributed in 11 of his 13 games, including a remarkable stretch from November 8 to 11, where he amassed an incredible 12 points over three games—mirroring a feat last achieved by Colorado legend Peter Forsberg back in 1995.
With a career total of 387 goals, 672 assists, and over 1,050 points in 895 games, MacKinnon continues to cement his legacy among Colorado’s greatest players. The 30-year-old, drafted first overall in 2013, has finished runner-up for the Art Ross Trophy twice and currently leads the NHL with 20 goals and 24 assists through just 25 games this season. His presence on the ice greatly influences the Avalanche’s stellar 18-1-6 record for November, marking their best single-month point total since January 2022.
He’s also among the league’s top performers in several categories this season, including even-strength points, plus/minus, goals, and shots on goal, showing his well-rounded contribution to his team.
Second Star: Jason Robertson (Left Wing, Dallas Stars)
Robertson shined brightly in November, leading the NHL with 13 goals and tying for the top in points with 26 across 15 games. His efforts helped propel the Dallas Stars to a dominant 11-2-2 record in November, earning 24 points—an impressive feat that ranks among the highest points totals in a single month for the franchise this century. Their outstanding performance places them second in overall league standings.
Known for his shooting accuracy and playmaking, Robertson also ranked among the league leaders in shots on goal (second with 62), power-play points (tied for second with 10), and power-play assists (third with 7). His scoring streak was particularly notable—he scored in nine of his 15 appearances, including a career-best seven-game goal streak from November 11 to 25, tying the second-longest streak in the franchise’s history since the team moved to Dallas in 1993.
He produced multiple multi-point games, including three consecutive three-point efforts at the start of that streak, and finished the month with a three-point game in his 400th career match. Robertson, drafted 39th overall in 2017, remains a key offensive force for the Stars, ranking sixth in the league in points with 35 and excelling in shots on goal and power-play production.
Third Star: Connor Bedard (Center, Chicago Blackhawks)
Bedard’s exceptional January—sorry, November—performance earned him third place. He tallied 10 goals and 13 assists for a total of 23 points in just 14 games, helping lift the Blackhawks to a 6-5-3 record for the month and moving them within striking distance of the playoffs, just one point behind a final Western Conference spot. Remarkably, only one other Chicago player in this century has matched or exceeded this level of prolific scoring in a single month: Patrick Kane.
Bedard contributed to over half of Chicago’s goals during November (52.3%), emphasizing his pivotal role. He also ranked high in various categories, including power-play assists, goals, and overall points, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most exciting young talents.
Throughout the month, Bedard found the scoresheet in 10 of his 14 games, with four games featuring at least three points. His standout performances included efforts against Calgary, Detroit, and Anaheim, demonstrating his ability to influence the game at key moments. As the No. 1 overall pick from the 2023 draft, the 20-year-old continues to show why he’s considered a future superstar, currently ranking third in league scoring with 37 points overall.
And this is the part most people miss: while these players are recognized for their impressive achievements, many other talented athletes go unnoticed each month, sparking debate about who truly deserves the honor. Do you agree with the NHL’s choices, or is there someone else you think should be celebrated? Share your opinions—discussions like these keep the sport vibrant and exciting.
