Way too early NHL Award predictions for the 2024-25 season
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With 28 points, 9 goals, and 19 assists, Kaprizov's standout season is propelling the Minnesota Wild to unexpected success, making a strong case for MVP recognition.
With the National Hockey League (NHL) season underway, many players have already established themselves early in the season. From unexpected most valuable player (MVP) candidates to breakout rookies, these standout players are positioning themselves to be named the best in the league. That said, here are some of my way-too-early NHL Awards predictions.
Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP): Kirill Kaprizov
The obvious candidates for the Hart Trophy would be Connor McDavid, Auston Matthews, Nathan MacKinnon, or Jack Hughes. Though these are the obvious, I would like to raise another option. The Minnesota Wild has been one of those teams performing better than expected, and a lot of credit has to go to left-wing Kirill Kaprizov.
If he had not been on the Wild, Kaprizov would have been severely recognized for his success, but that’s not true. He is, however, currently ranked second in the league in points with 28, nine goals, and 19 assists. Kaprizov’s production is unmatched, and with such a young core developing around him, a hopeful breakout season this year could be just what he needs to receive the Hart Trophy.
Calder Memorial Trophy (Rookie of the Year): Logan Stankoven
While in a tight race with Matvei Michkov and Macklin Celebrini, forward Logan Stankoven is the best candidate. The Dallas Stars are setting up for Logan Stankoven to have an exceptional season.
He is playing on a line with left-wing Jason Robertson and center Roope Hintz and on the team’s first power play unit, constructing the perfect place for him to receive plenty of quality touches, ice time, and scoring opportunities this season. He also has the skill to finish these chances, the playmaking ability to create just as many for others, and the experience to sustain his production—which shows when looking at his statistics. He leads all rookies in points with 12 total, comprised of two goals and 10 assists.
Coming into the season, he had already played 45 NHL games, significantly more than other possible rookies up for the Calder. He has the experience to play like a seasoned veteran. Playing for a Stanley Cup-contending Dallas team also puts him in a much better environment than most, raising his chances of winning even higher.
James Norris Memorial Trophy (Best Defenseman): Cale Makar
With one Norris Trophy already under his belt, Makar is making another run for it this year. Makar is the consensus best defenseman in the league. He has elevated his game and is tied for third among all NHL skaters, including forwards, in points with 24 total—six goals and 18 assists.
Makar quarterbacks the Colorado Avalanche’s number-two-ranked power play, which is a significant reason the Avalanche are still kicking despite their depleted forward group and some questionable goaltending.
Vezina Trophy (Best Goaltender): Connor Hellebuyck
At just 31-years-old, Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is a two-time Vezina winner and a four-time finalist— already making a compelling run to start the season. He has 11 wins, one loss, and three shut-outs so far, with a 1.83 goals-against average and a .935 save percentage.
While he does trail New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterskin, it would be great to see him win again, especially considering he is one of the catalysts for the Winnipeg Jets' success this season.
While the season is still far from over, it is always good to run over the potential all-stars emerging as it moves forward. Who ends up truly rising to the top and taking these awards home will be interesting.