As the Stanley Cup Playoffs progress, the NHL is unveiling the finalists for its most prestigious awards for the 2024-25 season. In a key announcement made during the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery, three outstanding rookies were named as the finalists for the Calder Trophy, which recognizes the top first-year player in the league. The contenders are Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks, Lane Hutson from the Montreal Canadiens, and Dustin Wolf of the Calgary Flames.
Lane Hutson made history this season, becoming just the fourth defenseman since the modern era began in 1943-44 to lead all rookies in points with a remarkable total of 66. His accomplishment places him alongside hockey legends like Bobby Orr, Brian Leetch, and Quinn Hughes. Additionally, Hutson’s impressive 60 assists tie him with Larry Murphy for the most assists recorded by a rookie defenseman in NHL history. Should he win the Calder Trophy, Hutson would join the ranks of Canadiens players to win the award during the expansion era, following Brendan Gallagher and Ken Dryden.
In other award announcements, Aleksander Barkov of the Florida Panthers clinched his second consecutive Selke Trophy, recognizing him as the league’s best defensive forward. Barkov faced off against teammates Anthony Cirelli and Sam Reinhart but once again showcased his all-around abilities, leading his team with a plus-13 goal differential. He significantly contributed to the Panthers’ strong defensive play, which ranked seventh in goals-against per game and boasted a solid penalty-killing percentage.
The excitement surrounding the NHL Awards will continue as finalists are revealed daily through mid-May. The ceremony is slated to occur in June 2025, although an exact date has yet to be confirmed.
Among the other notable awards, the Vezina Trophy honors the best goaltender, while the Norris Trophy is awarded to the top defenseman. Meanwhile, the Ted Lindsay Award is given to the most outstanding player, and the Hart Trophy recognizes the player deemed most valuable to their team.
Awards like the Jack Adams Award for coaching excellence, the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication, and the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship and playing ability will also be presented, celebrating a wide range of talents and contributions within the sport.
This season’s announcements highlight not only the individual talent across the league but also the competitive spirit and growth of players, promising a bright future for the NHL.