A power forward in the sport of ice hockey is a large, muscular offensive player (6'0 - 6'5, 210-240 pounds), with the mobility to track a puck to the corners of the rink, the physical toughness required to dig it out, and the puckhandling skills to get it back to anyone in front of the net. These players also tend to be stong and tough enough not to need an enforcer to protect them. Thus, a true power forward is rare and is usually blessed with a very high skill level, and are fan favorites for those that like the rougher side of hockey.

The reason power forwards are so desired is because they are generally very well-rounded players and can play physically in both the offensive and defensive zones. Additionally, a power forward can score from any place on the ice, whether with a strong slapshot or battling in front of the net to screen the goalie or catch a 'garbage', or rebound, goal.

Notable power forwards

• Todd Bertuzzi
• Wendel Clark
• Phil Esposito
• Clark Gillies
• Gordie Howe
• Dale Hunter
• Jarome Iginla
• Tim Kerr
• John LeClair
• Eric Lindros
• Rick Nash
• Cam Neely
• Owen Nolan
• Gary Roberts
• Brendan Shanahan
• Joe Thornton
• Keith Tkachuk
• Rick Tocchet
• Pat Verbeek
• Peter Forsberg

See also

Ice hockey personnel | Ice hockey terminology