John Buccigross’ Bold Claim About Connor McDavid’s GOAT Status originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
As the Edmonton Oilers continue their rematch against the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final, the spotlight remains fixed on Connor McDavid’s pursuit of a championship.
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The Oilers captain, who is about to complete his 10th season in the NHL, has yet to hoist the Cup. That’s a point often cited in discussions about his all-time legacy and whether or not he belongs in the “GOAT” conversation.
Not everyone believes the absence of a title disqualifies him from the greatest-of-all-time conversation, as ESPN’s John Buccigross made clear before the start of this year’s finals.
Appearing on ESPN’s “Pardon The Interruption,” Buccigross was asked by co-host Tony Kornheiser if McDavid has to win a Cup to “validate his position” among hockey’s greatest.
Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) has yet to hoist a championship trophy.Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
According to Buccigross, McDavid’s individual brilliance has already earned him a place in the GOAT debate, regardless of team results.
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“I don’t,” Buccigross said when asked if a Stanley Cup is necessary for McDavid’s legacy. “It’s 20 guys. It’s not seven — in basketball. It’s not 10, 11, 12 — in baseball if you count a couple pitchers each game… But I don’t.”
Buccigross emphasized how limited one player’s impact can be in a team game like hockey.
“A lot of time it’s right place, right time. And for him, he can only do so much, Buccigross said. “He only plays about a third of the game. He doesn’t play the whole game. So I don’t look at him that way.”
Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) skates against the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena.Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
McDavid leads all skaters in playoff points entering Game 3, with 31 through 18 games. Last year, he won the Conn Smythe Trophy despite Edmonton’s Game 7 defeat.
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Buccigross also believes this year’s fully healthy version of McDavid is operating on another level.
“I think he’s healthy this year, unlike last year,” Buccigross said. “That’s a different McDavid we’ve seen this postseason. That’s why I believe, with their backs against the wall (and) how desperate they are as an organization (and) how desperate he is, that’s why they (will) get it done.”
Game 3 will take place on Monday night in Sunrise, FL, with the series tied at 1-1.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.