The Calder Trophy Finalists for NHL Rookie of the Year

The Calder Trophy is a prestigious award given to the most proficient player in his first year of competition in the NHL. This year, one of the finalists for this coveted award is Connor Bedard. Bedard, who was the first pick of the 2023 NHL draft, has been touted as the league’s next great generational talent. In his first season with the Chicago Blackhawks, the 18-year-old center showcased his skills by tying for the team lead with 22 goals in 68 games. Despite missing 14 games due to a fractured jaw, Bedard led all rookies in goals, points, and was tied for first in assists.

Brock Faber: A Standout Defenseman for the Minnesota Wild

Another finalist for the Calder Trophy is Brock Faber, a second-round pick in 2020 who played his first full season for the Minnesota Wild. As a 21-year-old defenseman, Faber played a crucial role for his hometown team, averaging just under 25 minutes of ice time over 82 games. He finished the season with 8 goals, 39 assists, and 47 points, leading all first-year players as well as the Wild in ice time. Faber tied with Bedard for the most rookie assists and was tied for second in points.

Luke Hughes: Making an Impact with the New Jersey Devils

The third finalist for the Calder Trophy is Luke Hughes, a first-round pick by the New Jersey Devils in 2021. Hughes, a 20-year-old defenseman, played his first full season in the NHL, showcasing his potential as a top player. Throughout the season, Hughes’s role on the team continued to grow, finishing with 9 goals, 38 assists, and 47 points. He led all rookies in power-play points, was tied for second in points with Faber, and finished third in assists. Hughes also logged the second-highest ice time among newcomers with more than 20 games, leading the Devils in ice time and finishing fifth on the team in points.

The Calder Trophy finalists for NHL Rookie of the Year represent a talented group of young players who have made a significant impact in their first season in the league. Connor Bedard, Brock Faber, and Luke Hughes have all shown tremendous skill and promise, making them deserving candidates for this prestigious award. It will be interesting to see who ultimately takes home the Calder Trophy and is recognized as the most proficient rookie player in the NHL.