2025-26 NHL Award predictions: Daily Faceoff staff picks
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Daily Faceoff
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As the NHL season inches closer, the Daily Faceoff staff has made their predictions for the 2025-26 awards, showcasing their insights on the Hart, Vezina, Calder, Norris, and Selke trophies. The consensus among the analysts points to Connor McDavid as a strong favorite for the Hart Trophy, highlighting his exceptional scoring prowess and impact on the ice. With the Edmonton Oilers relying heavily on his performance, McDavid's ability to elevate his team's play could cement his legacy further this season.
For the Vezina Trophy, the discussion revolves around elite goaltenders like Igor Shesterkin and Juuse Saros. Both netminders have displayed remarkable skills and consistency, making them prime candidates as they lead their respective teams - the New York Rangers and the Nashville Predators - towards playoff contention. The staff's analysis emphasizes that a standout season in goal could very well determine the fate of their franchises.
In the Calder Trophy race, young talents such as Matty Beniers and Owen Power are expected to make significant impacts. Beniers, coming off a solid rookie season with the Seattle Kraken, is poised to shine even brighter, while Power is anticipated to further develop his skills as a defenseman with the Buffalo Sabres. The competition among rookies will be fierce, but their potential seems limitless.
Finally, the Norris and Selke Trophy conversations highlight the importance of two-way players in the league. The defenseman Victor Hedman has consistently proved his value on the ice, while players like Anze Kopitar are recognized for their contributions both offensively and defensively. The analysis shows that the NHL is deep with talent, making these awards races more competitive than ever, and fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.
For the Vezina Trophy, the discussion revolves around elite goaltenders like Igor Shesterkin and Juuse Saros. Both netminders have displayed remarkable skills and consistency, making them prime candidates as they lead their respective teams - the New York Rangers and the Nashville Predators - towards playoff contention. The staff's analysis emphasizes that a standout season in goal could very well determine the fate of their franchises.
In the Calder Trophy race, young talents such as Matty Beniers and Owen Power are expected to make significant impacts. Beniers, coming off a solid rookie season with the Seattle Kraken, is poised to shine even brighter, while Power is anticipated to further develop his skills as a defenseman with the Buffalo Sabres. The competition among rookies will be fierce, but their potential seems limitless.
Finally, the Norris and Selke Trophy conversations highlight the importance of two-way players in the league. The defenseman Victor Hedman has consistently proved his value on the ice, while players like Anze Kopitar are recognized for their contributions both offensively and defensively. The analysis shows that the NHL is deep with talent, making these awards races more competitive than ever, and fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.