Hockey has always been about speed, skill, and grit but in today’s digital era, it’s also about influence. NHL stars are no longer followed only for what they do on the ice; fans want personality, behind-the-scenes moments, and direct interaction. Social media has become a powerful extension of an athlete’s brand, helping players connect globally, attract sponsorships, and build legacies beyond hockey. Below is a look at the top 10 NHL athletes with the most followers on social media, based on their overall reach across platforms like Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok, and Facebook.
How Social Media Popularity Is Measured
These rankings are based on total follower counts across major platforms, visibility outside traditional hockey markets, and consistent engagement. While raw numbers matter, athletes who post regularly, show personality, and connect with fans tend to grow faster, especially strategies to increase follower count organically without sacrificing authenticity.
Top 10 NHL Athletes With the Most Followers on Social Media
#10 – Auston Matthews
A modern NHL superstar, Matthews combines elite performance with fashion-forward content and lifestyle posts that resonate far beyond hockey fans.
#9 – Nathan MacKinnon
MacKinnon’s intense competitive image and championship success with Colorado have fueled steady growth across social platforms.
#8 – Cale Makar
Known for his calm personality and unreal skill set, Makar’s highlight clips perform exceptionally well on Instagram and TikTok.
#7 – Sidney Crosby
A legend of the game, Crosby’s follower count reflects longevity, respect, and global recognition built over nearly two decades.
#6 – Leon Draisaitl
Draisaitl’s dominance in scoring and understated off-ice presence attract fans who appreciate excellence without overexposure.
#5 – Carey Price
Goaltenders don’t always dominate social media, but Price is an exception, thanks to his calm leadership image and loyal fanbase.
#4 – Alex Ovechkin
One of the most recognizable hockey players ever, Ovechkin’s mix of humor, family content, and record-chasing moments keeps fans locked in.
#3 – Patrick Kane
Kane’s popularity exploded during the Blackhawks’ dynasty years, and his legacy continues to drive massive engagement.
#2 – Connor McDavid
Often called the best player of his generation, McDavid’s clean image, elite highlights, and global appeal make him a social media powerhouse.
#1 – P.K. Subban
Even after stepping away from the ice, Subban remains the most followed NHL figure online. His charisma, media presence, fashion sense, and activism set him apart as a true digital-native athlete.
Which Platforms Work Best for NHL Players
Instagram remains the top platform for NHL athletes due to its visual nature, perfect for game highlights and lifestyle content. TikTok is rapidly gaining ground, especially for younger players who share locker-room clips and training routines. X (Twitter) works well for commentary and real-time reactions, while YouTube is ideal for documentaries and long-form storytelling.
Why NHL Players Are Growing Faster on Social Media
The NHL has made a strong push toward digital-first marketing, encouraging players to show more personality. Short-form video, global streaming access, and crossover appearances with celebrities and influencers have helped hockey reach audiences far beyond traditional markets.
