NHL Records: The Elite Circle of Multiple Art Ross Trophy Winners
The Origin of Offensive Excellence
While the Stanley Cup is the ultimate team goal, individual greatness in hockey is measured by the hardware handed out at season's end. Among the most coveted is the Art Ross Trophy, given to the player who leads the NHL in total points (goals plus assists). Presented to the NHL by Art Ross—it was first awarded after the 1947–48 season. The inaugural win went to Elmer Lach of the Montreal Canadiens, establishing the gold standard for offensive dominance.
Here is a look at six legendary players who have won the Art Ross Trophy five or more times.
“The Great One’s” Level of Dominance
You can’t talk about scoring records without Wayne Gretzky. "The Great One" didn't just win the Art Ross Trophy; he practically owned it, taking home the trophy a record ten times. His run in the 1980s was legendary, including seven straight wins from 1981 to 1987. His 215-point season remains the peak of what a single player has achieved on the ice.
Six-Time Titans: Gordie Howe and Mario Lemieux
Just below Wayne Gretzky sit two giants of the game, Gordie Howe and Mario Lemieux, who both earned the Art Ross Trophy six times. Gordie Howe—rightly dubbed "Mr. Hockey"—was the undisputed titan of the 1950s. Years later, the mantle passed to Mario Lemieux. “Super Mario” turned the rink into his personal playground throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
The Five-Time Elite: Phil Esposito, Jaromir Jagr, and Connor McDavid
Then there are the three legends who made their way to five Art Ross Trophies: Phil Esposito, Jaromir Jagr, and Connor McDavid.
Phil Esposito was the 1970s trailblazer, famously becoming the first player to ever shatter the 100-point ceiling.
Jaromir Jagr took over in the 1990s; at one point reeling off four scoring titles in a row.
Connor McDavid is the one carrying the torch today. By 2023, he’d already earned five Art Ross Trophies thanks to a level of explosive speed that looks like a glitch in the matrix.
The Ultimate Measure of Scoring
The Art Ross Trophy is about the simplest goal in hockey: putting points on the board. While other awards debate leadership or defense, this one is purely objective. It’s a grueling race throughout the season where every goal and assist counts toward history. To stamp your name on the Art Ross Trophy is to be recognized as part of the premier offensive engine of the NHL.