The modern NHL game is undeniably shaped by speed and agility. Gone are the days when slow, massive defensemen could simply wear down opponents. However, a rare and potent combination emerges when a player possesses both incredible speed and formidable size. The average NHL player now measures over 6 feet 1 inch and weighs 198 pounds, a notable increase from the 1944-45 season’s average of 5 feet 10 inches and 174 pounds. This growth suggests a significant physical evolution within the league. This article highlights the seven largest active NHL players, chosen based on their remarkable height and weight.
Anthony Stolarz
Height: 6 feet 6 inches
Weight: 248 pounds
Anthony Stolarz, currently the starting goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs, has had a remarkable career progression. After stints with various teams, he has found success and a stable role in Toronto. He is recognized as the NHL’s largest active netminder, standing at an impressive 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 248 pounds. This significant physical presence allows him to cover a substantial portion of the net when positioned correctly. Despite his size, Stolarz exhibits exceptional agility, boasting powerful lateral movements and the capability to execute challenging, athletic saves.
Aliaksei Protas – Washington Capitals
Height: 6 feet 6 inches
Weight: 250 pounds
The Washington Capitals appear to have made a shrewd selection in the third round of the 2019 NHL Draft with Aliaksei Protas. This Belarusian forward has blossomed into a fast, top-six attacker who combines speed with impressive physical stature. Protas hit the 30-goal mark in the 2024-25 season and is expected to maintain similar scoring production in the coming years. Having already secured championships in the WHL and AHL, a Stanley Cup remains the next significant achievement for his growing resume.
Alex Ovechkin – Washington Capitals
Height: 6 feet 3 inches
Weight: 238 pounds
Alex Ovechkin, an iconic power forward, has captivated the NHL since his debut at age 20 in 2005. With a record nine Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophies, he stands as the league’s all-time leading goal scorer. Beyond his scoring prowess, Ovechkin is also one of the league’s most physically imposing players. His robust build allows him to maintain exceptional speed and frequently overpower opponents on the ice, a remarkable feat even at 40 years old.
Elmer Soderblom – Detroit Red Wings
Height: 6 feet 8 inches
Weight: 252 pounds
Elmer Soderblom, a former sixth-round draft pick, achieved the impressive feat of reaching the NHL by age 21, with the 2025-26 season marking his full-time debut. While still developing his ability to fully utilize his imposing frame, Soderblom’s game is characterized more by skill than by delivering heavy bodychecks. He possesses excellent puck control and a strong net-front presence. If he can master leveraging his size effectively against smaller, more agile opponents, he has the potential to become a reliable, two-way middle-six forward for the Red Wings.
Jamie Oleksiak – Seattle Kraken
Height: 6 feet 7 inches
Weight: 252 pounds
Jamie Oleksiak has consistently been recognized among the league’s largest players, and for good reason. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 252 pounds, he presents an immense defensive presence for the Seattle Kraken. The 32-year-old is a highly adaptable defenseman, capable of playing both left and right sides, and excelling in both offensive and defensive assignments. Irrespective of his specific role, Oleksiak’s sheer size makes him a formidable and intimidating force, particularly against the majority of his smaller opponents in the league.
Nikita Zadorov – Boston Bruins
Height: 6 feet 7 inches
Weight: 255 pounds
Slightly heavier than Oleksiak, Nikita Zadorov is renowned for delivering powerful, bone-jarring hits and asserting a strong physical presence in front of his team’s net. Now playing for Boston, this veteran defenseman is counted among the NHL’s most imposing figures. Throughout his career, Zadorov has averaged an impressive 226 hits per 82-game season and is well-known for his willingness to engage in fights. Notably, he set a new personal record with 145 penalty minutes in the 2024-25 season, a significant increase from the previous year.
Matt Rempe – New York Rangers
Height: 6 feet 9 inches
Weight: 261 pounds
Matt Rempe, the colossal forward for the New York Rangers, has made a significant impact since his NHL debut in the 2022-23 season. A player well-acquainted with physical confrontations, Rempe stands head and shoulders above his peers as the league’s sole active player measuring 6 feet 9 inches. However, Rempe is more than just a traditional enforcer; the 23-year-old demonstrates unexpected offensive abilities around the net. While he may not be a prolific goal-scorer, his unique skillset and presence contribute significantly to the Rangers’ lineup.