4. Patrick Marleau

So…what does longevity mean?

As far as we are concerned, it should matter a lot!

As of this writing, Patrick Marleau is the most tenured player in the National Hockey League.  The Canadian forward played 23 seasons (21 with San Jose) and logged 1,779 Games with 1,197 Points.  Marleau was never a threat for any individual award, but he was consistent for a long time, played both ends of the ice, and was a clean player who rarely made mistakes.  He was also a three-time All-Star.

As good as he was, and as long as he played, is Patrick Marleau a Hall of "Very Good" player, or was he the next level?  Anyone, who holds the record for Games Played, is a member of the 1,000-Point club will likely be considered Hall of Fame worthy!

We are fascinated to debate this further!