The top 10 shortest players in NHL history

By Jayson Panganiban February 12, 2024 21:49

Photo by Nate Scott

The National Hockey League (NHL) has seen players of various statures excel on the ice. While height is often associated with success in hockey, there have been several notable players who defied this stereotype. Here are the top 10 shortest players in NHL history who made a big impact despite their smaller stature.

1. Roy Worters - 5'3"

Roy Worters, standing at just 5 feet 3 inches, was a remarkable goaltender for the New York Americans and the Montreal Canadiens in the 1920s and 1930s. Despite his small frame, Worters' agility and reflexes made him a standout player, earning him the Hart Trophy as the league's most valuable player in 1929.

2. Joe Malone - 5'10"

Joe Malone, at 5 feet 10 inches, was considered short by NHL standards during his era in the early 1900s. However, his impact on the game was immense. Malone was the first player in NHL history to score seven goals in a single game, a record that still stands today.

3. Martin St. Louis - 5'8"

Martin St. Louis, at 5 feet 8 inches, overcame his lack of height with exceptional speed and skill. He enjoyed a highly successful career, winning the Hart Trophy and the Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning. St. Louis' 1,033 career points solidified his place as one of the greatest small players in NHL history.

4. Theo Fleury - 5'6"

Theo Fleury, standing at 5 feet 6 inches, was known for his tenacity and scoring ability. Despite his small stature, Fleury tallied over 1,000 career points and won the Stanley Cup with the Calgary Flames in 1989.

5. Brian Gionta - 5'7"

At 5 feet 7 inches, Brian Gionta was a dynamic forward known for his leadership and scoring touch. Gionta's successful career included captaining the Montreal Canadiens and representing Team USA in international competitions.

6. Henri "Pocket Rocket" Richard - 5'7"

Henri Richard, affectionately known as the "Pocket Rocket," stood at 5 feet 7 inches. Despite his small size, Richard's speed and offensive prowess helped the Montreal Canadiens capture 11 Stanley Cup championships during his tenure, solidifying his status as a legendary player.

7. Mats Zuccarello - 5'8"

Mats Zuccarello, at 5 feet 8 inches, has been a dynamic playmaker throughout his NHL career. His skill and creativity have made him a valuable asset for teams such as the New York Rangers and the Minnesota Wild.

8. Nathan Gerbe - 5'4"

Nathan Gerbe, one of the shortest players in NHL history at 5 feet 4 inches, has showcased his speed and scoring ability despite his diminutive stature. Gerbe's resilience and determination have earned him a place in the league for several seasons.

9. Enrico Ciccone - 5'10"

Enrico Ciccone, at 5 feet 10 inches, was considered short for a defenseman. Despite this, Ciccone had a successful career as a physical and hard-nosed blue-liner, playing for various teams over his tenure in the NHL.

10. Ray "Razor" Whitney - 5'10"

Ray Whitney, standing at 5 feet 10 inches, was known for his crafty playmaking and scoring ability. Despite being one of the shorter players in the league, Whitney enjoyed a lengthy career and achieved significant success, including winning the Stanley Cup with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2006.

these players have proven that size is not always a limiting factor in the NHL. Their skill, determination, and contributions to the game have left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations of hockey players to pursue their dreams regardless of their physical stature.