The race for the 2024-2025 NHL MVP and Rookie of the Year awards is heating up even before the first puck drops. With Connor McDavid once again leading the Hart Trophy pack and the unexpected leader of the Calder, this season promises to be exciting for fans and pundits alike.
MVP favorites and Dark Horses
The MVP race for the 2024-2025 NHL season is shaping up to be fiercely competitive, featuring a dynamic mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars eager to make their mark. Leading the charge is Connor McDavid, the Edmonton Oilers' special center, whose impressive performance continues to set him apart as a center in the league. With online sportsbooks ranking him as the early favorite for NHL Hart Trophy odds, this is hardly surprising. His proven track record, highlighted by a 42-point playoff game last season, only solidifies his status at the top of the NHL's talent pool. This suspension by the major sports books underscores the desire for another dominant season from McDavid, as fans and analysts alike look closely to see if he can maintain his high level of play.
The Colorado Avalanche's Nathan MacKinnon, coming off an impressive 140-point season that earned him his first Hart Trophy, remains a strong contender. His ability to perform under pressure and lead his team deep into the playoffs highlights his selection and makes him a perennial favorite in MVP discussions.
Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs is another stalwart, known for his sharp shooting skills and ability to score important goals. Last season, Matthews impressed with a league-leading 69 goals, and his big-time performance continues to make him a front-runner for MVP.
Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils has been making waves with his rapid growth and ability to control the game from the center position. His tally of 74 points last season in 62 games shows his growing influence and his potential to be a future MVP.
Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning will have more pressure on his shoulders in 2024-25 as teammate Steven Stamkos has moved on to Nashville. Kucherov is coming off a career year in which he led the league in assists (100) and points (144). The 2018-19 Hart Trophy winner almost took home his second MVP award last year, instead finishing second.
Leon Draisaitl, another key player from the Edmonton Oilers, paired with McDavid to form one of the most formidable duos in the NHL. Last season, Draisaitl scored 106 points, and his consistent high-level play makes him a staple of the MVP conversation.
Kirill Kaprizov of the Minnesota Wild, who has an equal chance of Draisaitl, continues to delight the fans with his strong play. Last season, he scored 46 goals and played a major role in the Wild's tactics, showing his selection as a possible MVP.
The depth of talent in the league is further emphasized by players like David Pastrnak of the Boston Bruins, whose scoring ability and ability to play in key moments has made him a valuable asset to his team. Last season, Pastrnak scored 47 goals, and his continued improvement each year keeps him in the MVP conversation.
This collection of talent highlights the diversity and high level of skill across the NHL, promising an exciting MVP race that will captivate fans and pundits throughout the season. Each candidate brings a unique set of skills and accomplishments, making this one of the most unpredictable and highly watched MVP races in recent years.
Rookie of the Year Outlook
In the 2024-2025 NHL season, the race for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the league's top rookie, is incredibly exciting, led by a diverse group of young talents each ready to make their mark.
At the top of the list is Matvei Michkov of the Philadelphia Flyers, who was selected seventh overall in the 2023 draft. Michkov's rapid rise to the top of the prospect list, even surpassing this year's No. 1 pick, Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks, brings an exciting dynamic to the rookie scene. Celebrini, known for his incredible speed and playmaking ability, scored 32 goals and 32 assists last year for Boston University.
Logan Stankoven of the Dallas Stars and Cutter Gauthier of the Anaheim Ducks are also among the best. Stankoven, a skilled forward and scorer, had 24 goals and 37 assists last year in the AHL and is known for his determination on the ice. On the other hand, Gauthier brings a combination of size and skill that makes him a formidable presence, as he contributed 39 and 31 goals in his two years at Boston College.
Adding to the mix are Lane Hutson of the Montreal Canadiens and Dustin Wolf of the Calgary Flames. Hutson, a smart defenseman, is praised for his exceptional puck movement skills and defensive prowess, making him one of the top prospects in his draft class. Meanwhile, Wolf, a goaltender, posted impressive numbers last season with a .926 save percentage and 2.29 goals-against average in the minor leagues, showing his NHL readiness.
These rookies represent the future of the NHL, each bringing unique strengths to their teams. Their performance will be closely watched as they fight for the Calder Trophy, promising a season full of new stars on the rise.
The conclusion
The 2024-2025 NHL season will be a showcase of top talent, veterans and newcomers vying for the league's top honors. Whether discussing MVP candidates like McDavid and MacKinnon or rookies like Michkov and Celebrini, each player's journey adds layers to the rich tapestry of professional hockey. As the season progresses, Hooked On Hockey Magazine will continue to provide in-depth coverage, ensuring fans are well informed and engaged every step of the way.
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