Getting Back into NHL Card Collecting: The Top Players to Look For

Whether you’re returning after a long hiatus or just getting started, the hobby has seen significant changes over the years. With new stars emerging and vintage cards gaining more value, it’s an exciting time to dive in.

This guide will walk you through the best NHL players to target for card collecting, ensuring you make informed decisions and build a valuable collection.

We’ll cover current stars, rising talents, and legendary players whose cards are highly sought after.

Current Stars: Must-Have Modern NHL Cards

1. Connor McDavid
   • Rookie Cards: Connor McDavid’s 2015-16 Upper Deck Young Guns rookie card is one of the most valuable modern cards.
   • Signature Series: Autographed cards from McDavid, especially those from high-end sets like Upper Deck The Cup, are highly coveted.
2. Auston Matthews
   • Rookie Cards: Auston Matthews’ 2016-17 Upper Deck Young Guns and SP Authentic rookie cards are hot items.
   • Inserts and Parallels: Look for special inserts and parallel cards that feature Matthews, which often have unique designs and limited print runs.
3. Sidney Crosby
   • Rookie Cards: Sidney Crosby’s 2005-06 Upper Deck Young Guns and SP Authentic rookie cards are essential for any serious collector.
   • MVP Season Cards: Cards from his MVP seasons, especially those featuring game-used memorabilia or autographs, are in high demand.

Rising Stars: Invest in Future Greatness

1. Cale Makar
   • Rookie Cards: Cale Makar’s 2019-20 Upper Deck Young Guns and SP Authentic rookie cards are currently very popular.
   • Autographed Cards: His autographed rookie cards, especially those from premium sets, are highly collectible.
2. Kirill Kaprizov
   • Rookie Cards: Kirill Kaprizov’s 2020-21 Upper Deck Young Guns and SP Authentic rookie cards are must-haves.
   • Special Editions: Limited edition parallels and inserts that feature Kaprizov can offer substantial returns.
3. Quinn Hughes
   • Rookie Cards: Quinn Hughes’ 2019-20 Upper Deck Young Guns and SP Authentic rookie cards are highly sought after.
   • Performance Highlights: Cards commemorating his standout performances and milestones are valuable additions.

Legends: Timeless Investments

1. Wayne Gretzky
   • Vintage Cards: Wayne Gretzky’s 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee and Topps rookie cards are iconic and hold immense value.
   • Reprints and Inserts: Modern reprints and special inserts featuring Gretzky are also popular among collectors.
2. Mario Lemieux
   • Rookie Cards: Mario Lemieux’s 1985-86 Topps and O-Pee-Chee rookie cards are among the most valuable in the hobby.
   • Autographs and Memorabilia: Autographed cards and memorabilia cards featuring game-used items are highly prized.
3. Bobby Orr
   • Rookie Cards: Bobby Orr’s 1966-67 Topps rookie card is a cornerstone for any vintage collection.
   • Career Highlights: Cards that highlight significant moments from his career are valuable.

Key Tips for NHL Card Collecting

1. Understand Card Grading
   • Graded cards from reputable organizations like PSA, BGS, and SGC can significantly enhance the value of your collection. Higher grades (e.g., PSA 10) are especially valuable.
2. Stay Updated with Trends
   • The card market can fluctuate based on player performance, trades, and other factors. Keeping up with the latest trends and news can help you make informed decisions.
3. Focus on Limited Editions and Parallels
   • Cards that are part of limited print runs or feature unique parallels tend to be more valuable. Look for cards with low serial numbers (e.g., /25, /10) and special inserts.
4. Diversify Your Collection
   • While it’s tempting to focus on current stars, diversifying your collection with a mix of rookies, current stars, and legends can balance potential risks and rewards.
5. Join Collecting Communities
   • Engaging with other collectors through forums, social media groups, and local card shows can provide valuable insights and opportunities to trade or purchase cards.

Re-entering the NHL card collecting hobby can be an exhilarating experience. With the right knowledge and strategies, you can build a valuable and enjoyable collection.

Focus on key players like:

1. Connor McDavid
2. Auston Matthews
3. Sidney Crosby
4. Alex Ovechkin
5. Nathan MacKinnon
6. Leon Draisaitl
7. Cale Makar
8. Kirill Kaprizov
9. Quinn Hughes
10. Elias Pettersson
11. Andrei Vasilevskiy
12. Igor Shesterkin
13. Patrick Kane
14. Steven Stamkos
15. Artemi Panarin
16. Mitch Marner
17. Jack Hughes
18. Kaapo Kakko
19. Cole Caufield
20. Alexis Lafrenière

Keep an eye on trends, invest in graded cards, and diversify your collection to maximize your potential returns.

Happy collecting!