Beginning of October doesn't usually mean the league tables for the NHL franchise, especially since the title is typically launched in mid-September each year. But thanks to the later launch of NHL 21 this year, things have obviously changed. A day after releasing the top 21 NHL goalie ratings, EA Sports released the top defenseman numbers for this year's game on October 5. And just like the best goaltenders, a member of the 2020 Stanley Cup Championship squad is the top-rated NHL 21 defenseman.
Who are the best NHL 21 defenders
Lighting defenders Victor Hedman tops this list, as he received a 91 OVR rating from the NHL team. But Hedman wasn't the only defenseman to receive a 91 from EA Sports. John Carlson of the Washington Capitals and Drew Doughty of the Los Angeles Kings also hit the 91 OVR marker. 2020 Norris Trophy recipient Roman Josi received the fourth highest score (90 OVR) among 21 NHL defensemen.
Here are the ten highest-rated defensemen in NHL 21, ranked by overall player rating:
- Victor Hedman - 91 OVR
- John Carlson – 91 OVR
- Drew Doughty – 91 OVR
- Roman Josi - 90 OVR
- Alex Pietrangelo – 90 OVR
- Erik Karlsson - 89 OVR
- Shea Weber – 88 OVR
- Kris Letang – 88 OVR
- Brent Burns – 88 OVR
- Zach Werenski – 87 OVR
As with the goaltender odds, keep in mind that these odds apply to most NHL 21 game modes, including local and online play, as well as Franchise mode. These numbers do not apply to Hockey Ultimate Team, as HUT uses a different scoring system.
Related: All the changes coming to being a pro in NHL 21
