The NHL’s most valuable player award winners have historically been forwards, with goaltenders and defensemen often overlooked. However, the 2025 season may see a shift in this trend, with Connor Hellebuyck, a goaltender, leading the pack for the Hart Trophy, alongside two standout defensemen. This unexpected turn in the MVP race has sparked intrigue among Professional Hockey Writers Association voters, who are closely monitoring the current leaders.
Ross | Richard | Hart
Art Ross Trophy (points leader)
Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophy
Hart Trophy (MVP)
In a surprising twist of fate, Kirill Kaprizov, the front-runner for the Hart Trophy, has been sidelined by a long-term injury, shaking up the rankings. Hellebuyck, the Winnipeg Jets’ stellar goaltender and last season’s Vezina Trophy winner, has emerged as the new leader, impressing voters with his standout performance this season. Hellebuyck’s exceptional stats, including a .925 save percentage and a 2.04 goals-against average, have positioned him as a strong contender for the prestigious MVP award. Despite stiff competition from the likes of Nathan MacKinnon and Leon Draisaitl, Hellebuyck’s consistency and impact on his team’s success have not gone unnoticed.
MacKinnon, the reigning Hart Trophy winner, continues to be a force to be reckoned with, leading the NHL in points. Draisaitl, a former Hart Trophy recipient, has also garnered significant attention for his impressive goal-scoring prowess this season. The battle for the MVP title remains intense, with Quinn Hughes, a standout defenseman for the Vancouver Canucks, making a strong case for himself with his remarkable performance on the ice. Hughes’ dominance on both ends of the rink has earned him recognition as a top contender for the Hart Trophy.
Amidst the MVP race, Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning has also emerged as a standout player, showcasing his exceptional playmaking skills and offensive prowess. Kucherov’s stellar performance this season has not gone unnoticed by voters, who have lauded his contributions to the team’s success. As the competition heats up, the race for the Hart Trophy promises to be one of the most exciting battles in recent NHL history.
Norris | Selke | Vezina
On the defensive front, Quinn Hughes has maintained his lead in the Norris Trophy race, showcasing his exceptional skills and defensive acumen. Hughes’ stellar performance on the blue line has solidified his position as a top contender for the prestigious award. However, Cale Makar and Zach Werenski are not far behind, with both defensemen making strong cases for themselves with their standout performances this season. The battle for the Norris Trophy remains close, with each contender bringing a unique set of skills and talents to the table.
In the race for the Calder Trophy, Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks continues to lead the pack, showcasing his exceptional skills and offensive flair. Celebrini’s impressive performance as a rookie has earned him recognition as a top contender for the prestigious award. However, Lane Hutson and Dustin Wolf are not far behind, with both rookies making strong cases for themselves with their standout performances this season. The competition for the Calder Trophy promises to be intense, with each rookie bringing a unique set of skills and talents to the table.
As the season progresses, the race for the Vezina Trophy remains tight, with Connor Hellebuyck leading the pack with his stellar performance between the pipes. Hellebuyck’s exceptional stats and impact on his team’s success have positioned him as a top contender for the prestigious award. However, Logan Thompson and Dustin Wolf are not far behind, with both goaltenders showcasing their skills and talents in the crease. The battle for the Vezina Trophy promises to be intense, with each goaltender bringing a unique set of skills and talents to the table.
In the Selke Trophy race, Aleksander Barkov continues to lead the pack, showcasing his exceptional defensive abilities and leadership on the ice. Barkov’s standout performance as a defensive forward has solidified his position as a top contender for the prestigious award. However, Nico Hischier and Sam Reinhart are not far behind, with both forwards making strong cases for themselves with their impressive defensive play. The competition for the Selke Trophy remains close, with each contender bringing a unique set of skills and talents to the table.
In the race for the Jack Adams Award, Spencer Carbery of the Washington Capitals continues to lead the pack, earning praise for his exceptional coaching and leadership. Carbery’s ability to rally his team and exceed expectations has solidified his position as a top contender for the prestigious award. However, Scott Arniel and Dean Evason are not far behind, with both coaches showcasing their skills and talents behind the bench. The battle for the Jack Adams Award promises to be intense, with each coach bringing a unique perspective and approach to the game.
As the NHL season unfolds, the race for the league’s top awards continues to captivate fans and experts alike. With standout performances, unexpected twists, and intense competition, the battle for the Hart, Norris, Calder, Vezina, Selke, and Jack Adams awards promises to be one for the history books. Stay tuned as the season progresses and the contenders vie for hockey’s most coveted honors.
