NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

NHL 26 Hockey Ultimate Team is shaping up to feature one of the most competitive and diverse card pools in years, with certain players already standing out as game-changers. Some dominate with blistering speed and smooth skating, others rely on size and physicality, while a few offer a balanced mix of elite shooting and versatility. This guide highlights the best cards available right now, explaining what makes each one effective, how they suit different playstyles, and whether they are worth their steep coin prices, giving players clear direction on where to invest early in the game.

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Why Speed and Size Matter in NHL 26's Meta

The current NHL 26 meta heavily favors players who combine elite skating with physical presence. Cards exceeding 90 speed create separation opportunities that translate directly into scoring chances, while players over 6'2" maintain puck possession through traffic.

X-factors serve as game-changers, with abilities like Wheels, Quick Release, and Unstoppable providing tangible advantages during crucial moments. Chemistry activation amplifies these benefits, often pushing already elite cards into game-breaking territory.

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Elite Forward

Connor McDavid

McDavid remains NHL 26's premier forward, commanding approximately 360,000 coins for good reason. His combination of Wheels and Elite Edges X-factors creates unmatched skating dynamics that leave defenders scrambling.

Base Stats:

• 92 Speed / 93 Acceleration
• 90 Faceoffs (rare for McDavid cards)
• 88/83/90/84 shooting attributes

With chemistry activation, McDavid becomes virtually unstoppable, maintaining possession through the tightest defensive coverage while creating scoring opportunities from nothing.

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Nathan MacKinnon

MacKinnon's 280,000 coin price tag reflects his status as one of HUT's most dominant forces. Standing 6'0" with Wheels and Quick Release, he combines raw speed with finishing ability.

Key Advantages:

• 91 Speed / 91 Acceleration (upgrades to 93/93 with chemistry)
• Unique skating animation unavailable to most players
• Avalanche chemistry synergy with multiple elite teammates

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Eric Lindros

Lindros offers exceptional value as an 84 overall card with game-changing potential. His 6'4", 240 lb frame combined with the Unstoppable X-factor creates a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses.

Chemistry-Boosted Stats:

• 91 Speed (up from 89)
• 86 Faceoffs for center flexibility
• Dominant physical presence in board battles

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Defensive Anchors

Chris Pronger

Pronger's 6'6" frame makes him an instant upgrade to any blue line. His Stick 'Em Up and Turbulence X-factors shut down opposing rushes while creating turnover opportunities.

Defensive Excellence:

• 92 Defensive Awareness
• 90 Body Checking
• Unmatched reach for poke checks and shot blocking

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Cale Makar

Despite his 6'0", 187 lb build, Makar ranks among HUT's elite defenders thanks to his exceptional mobility. His 90 Speed and 90 Acceleration create instant transition opportunities.

With Chemistry Active:

• 92 Speed / 92 Acceleration
• Elite offensive upside from the back end
• Perfect complement to bigger defensive partners

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Icon Cards

Sergei Fedorov

Fedorov delivers elite performance at approximately 110,000 coins, offering versatility that few cards match. His Wheels X-factor combined with 89 Faceoffs creates center/wing flexibility.

Complete Skill Set:

• 91 Speed / 91 Acceleration
• 85/90/86/90 shooting attributes
• Strong defensive awareness for two-way play

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Teemu Selanne

Selanne's 94 Speed represents the fastest skating in HUT, with chemistry boosts pushing him to 96 Speed. His Pressure Plus and Quick Release X-factors make him lethal in transition.

Ducks Chemistry Benefits:

• Enhanced speed ratings
• Improved shooting accuracy
• Perfect fit for rush-heavy strategies

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Value Picks

David Pastrnak

At 40,000 coins, Pastrnak offers incredible value with his 6'3" frame and Quick Release X-factor. His Born Leader ability provides team-wide benefits while maintaining individual excellence.

Chemistry-Boosted Performance:

• 90 Speed / 88 Acceleration
• 86 Faceoffs for positional flexibility
• Elite shooting with quick release animation

Ray Bourque

Bourque's 6'0", 223 lb build combines with Tape to Tape and Rocket X-factors for two-way dominance. His 89 Defensive Awareness (upgrades to 91 with chemistry) anchors any defensive corps.

NHL 26 Guide: Best HUT Cards to Use Right Now

Other Notable Picks

• Joe Sakic: Avalanche synergy, 88 speed, 89 faceoffs, and a great shot with Quick Release.
• Anthony Stolarz (G): Budget-friendly goalie option who plays better than his rating suggests. A hidden gem if you are low on coins.
• Belleville: At 6’3, 205 lbs with a quick release and chemistry boosts pushing him to 90 speed, he is a reliable two-way forward option.

These cards represent NHL 26 HUT's current elite tier, each offering unique advantages that translate into competitive success. Whether you're investing in game-breaking superstars like McDavid or finding value with cards like Pastrnak, prioritize players whose strengths align with your preferred playing style. The meta continues evolving, but these proven performers provide the foundation for championship-caliber squads.