EA Sports revealed its top-rated defensemen in NHL 26 on Monday, and St. Louis Blues defenseman Colton Parayko earned recognition as one of the strongest right-handed blueliners in the game.
While Parayko did not appear on NHL Network’s “Top 20 Defensemen” list, his video game rating shows a different perspective. Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar leads the rankings with an overall 95, while New York Rangers’ Adam Fox is the only other defenseman rated in the 90s. Boston Bruins’ Charlie McAvoy follows with an 89, and Parayko is part of a group of players rated 88 overall.
According to EA Sports’ breakdown of individual attributes, Parayko holds the fifth-highest rating among right-handed defensemen in the game. His inclusion comes after a strong 2024–25 season in which he set career highs with 36 points and 16 goals across 64 games, while continuing to log over 23 minutes of ice time per night for the fourth straight year.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Parayko will remain a key piece on the right side of the Blues’ defense, joined by veteran Justin Faulk and newcomer Logan Mailloux. That defensive depth will be crucial as St. Louis pushes for a playoff berth in 2025–26.
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