Comparing Elias Pettersson and Jack Hughes: Who would you rather have?

Jack Hughes and Elias Pettersson have both had incredible breakout years and appear to be the centerpieces of their franchises for years to come. But which one would you choose to build your team around? Frank Seravalli and Mike McKenna answered that question for Ask DFO on Daily Faceoff Live.

Mike McKenna: I tell you what, I love Elias Pettersson, and he is coming off his first 100-point season, but I’m not sure if he’ll have another 100-point season. It’s been a pretty big leap this year in terms of production.

Jack Hughes though, I am absolutely convinced he will have multiple 100-point seasons. He’s also only 21 so I think he’s just scratching the surface. I love both players, but I’d go with Jack Hughes.

Frank Seravalli: You know, I’m kind of torn on this myself. I agree in the point that you make, but I don’t think by far this is the end of the 100-point seasons. It kind of feels to me like Pettersson is really just beginning to get comfortable in the NHL. He’s also much bigger, and I think that’s kind of one of Hughes’ detriments.

Not taking anything away from what he’s accomplished, so incredibly skilled, love the passion that he plays with and the fire he brings, but for me, when I watch Jack Hughes at his size, I’m always saying to myself “That guy is one hit away from being out for a couple months.” And I guess you could say that about any player in the NHL, because that’s the reality, injuries happen at any time. I just think with his frame, he’s got to battle in a lot different of a way than someone like Pettersson might have to.

So, I think if someone put a gun to my head today, I would probably take Pettersson over Hughes.

Mike McKenna: Well I’ve seen Pettersson with his shirt off, he’s a pretty wiry guy. These are both great players though, this will be a great debate for years to come.