NHL Awards Watch: February Update

As the 2023-24 NHL season unfolds, the landscape for the league's most prestigious awards is shifting in fascinating ways. Historically, the Hart Trophy, awarded to the Most Valuable Player, predominantly favors forwards, with only a handful of goaltenders and defensemen ever winning the accolade. However, this season may challenge that narrative.

Hart Trophy Candidates

The frontrunner for the Hart Trophy is none other than Connor Hellebuyck, the Winnipeg Jets' remarkable goaltender and last season's Vezina Trophy winner. After a stellar month, Hellebuyck has taken a significant lead, capturing 25% of the first-place votes from our panel of PHWA voters.

In contrast, Kirill Kaprizov, who was leading this race just weeks ago, is sidelined due to a long-term injury. Despite his absence, he remains the Wild's top scorer with impressive numbers of 23 goals and 52 points, but playing only 37 games has affected his MVP contention.

Meanwhile, two other familiar names, Nathan MacKinnon and Leon Draisaitl, are also strong contenders, garnering over 20% and 20% respectively. MacKinnon currently leads the NHL in points with 80, while Draisaitl tops the goal charts with 36 goals.

Norris Trophy Race

Turning to the Norris Trophy for the top defenseman, Quinn Hughes is maintaining his position as the leader, having won it last season. With Cale Makar and Zach Werenski trailing close behind, Hughes garnered 45% of the first-place votes, showcasing his exceptional two-way play. Makar, often regarded as one of the best defensemen in the game, trails Hughes but remains a formidable competitor.

Calder Trophy Leaders

The race for the Calder Trophy, marking the league's best rookie player, is heating up with Macklin Celebrini leading the pack. After an early injury, he has excelled with 16 goals and 21 assists. However, Dustin Wolf, the rookie goalie for Calgary, is quickly making a name for himself with outstanding performances, especially as the Flames fight for a playoff spot.

Vezina Trophy and Goaltending Excellence

Hellebuyck's dominance in the Vezina Trophy candidacy aligns perfectly with his Hart considerations. Leading in wins, shutouts, and save percentage, he has proved critical to the Jets' success, earning 80% of the panel votes. Meanwhile, Logan Thompson of the Capitals has been exceptional as well, boasting a remarkable record and strong saving metrics.

Conclusion

The 2023-24 NHL awards race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. With goaltenders and defensemen significantly impacting their teams, the traditional narratives surrounding these awards could be turned upside down. Keep an eye on the leaders as we approach the final stretch of the season and watch how the performances will sway the votes in the months to come.