NHL ’94 is generally regarded as the best in the series as well as one of the greatest video games, period. Classic old-school visual style. Just the right speed and control. Scoring is heavily reliant on one-timers.
NHL 95 is the easy runner-up. Some people will tell you they prefer it over 94. Slicker graphics than 94. A little faster and more wide-open. Defenders screwing up their positioning a lot.
NHL 96 is probably next, a more realistic take. Visual style takes a step back, with a darker look. Much faster, with control that’s tougher to handle. More tenacious AI defense and tough goalies.
NHLPA Hockey ’93 is often left out of the discussion, but it’s great too. Basically 94 without one-timers. Plus fights and bleeding heads.
Here’s a top 8: