NHL Awards 2024: Celebrating Current Champions and Predicting Future Honorees
As the NHL Awards 2024 approach, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the memorable moments from the previous season, celebrate the current champions, and cast our predictions for the remaining awards yet to be decided. The annual NHL Awards ceremony is a hallmark event in the hockey calendar, celebrating the best players, coaches, and other contributors who have excelled over the past season. This year, the anticipation is as high as ever, with fans and analysts alike eager to see which players have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Looking Back: 2023 NHL Award Winners
Before diving into the NHL Awards 2024, let’s recap the notable winners from 2023 who set high standards for this season’s contenders:
Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP)
In 2023, the Hart Memorial Trophy was awarded to the Oilers Connor McDavid, a player who not only dominated the scoring charts but also carried his team through to the playoffs before falling short against the eventual Stanley Cup winners, the Vegas Knights. McDavid’s performances were a masterclass in skill and leadership, setting a benchmark for what it takes to be named the league’s MVP.
Vezina Trophy (Top Goalie)
The Vezina Trophy winner Linus Ullmark showcased incredible agility and consistency between the pipes, recording multiple shutouts and maintaining one of the lowest goals-against averages in the league. His herculean efforts were critical in his team securing a playoff berth. The Boston Bruins keeper conceded two or fewer goals in 36 of his 49 total appearances (73.5%).
Norris Trophy (Top Defenseman)
Excelling at both ends of the ice, the 2023 Norris Trophy recipient Erik Karlsson was instrumental in his team’s defensive strength while also contributing significantly to their offensive play. His ability to control the game’s pace and his defensive acumen were unmatched.
Calder Memorial Trophy (Rookie of the Year)
The Calder Memorial Trophy went to Matty Beniers who burst onto the NHL scene with an impressive debut season. His rapid adaptation to the league and immediate impact on his team’s performance earned him this prestigious rookie award.
Predictions for Undecided NHL Awards 2024
With plenty of awards still up for grabs, predictions are swirling about who will take home the remaining trophies. Here’s a look at the potential winners:
Hart Memorial Trophy 2024
The Hart Memorial Trophy is not yet decided for 2024 but Nathan Mckinnon is favorite to claim the coveted MVP trophy.
Vezina Trophy
The Vezina Trophy for the top goaltender is awarded to a goalie who has been nothing short of spectacular. Although it’s not confirmed yet Winnipeg Jet’s Connor Hellebuyck is the hot favorite in the NHL sports betting odds.
Norris Trophy
The race for the Norris Trophy is tight, with several defensemen showing elite prowess. Predictions lean towards a player who has not only been solid defensively but has also contributed heavily to his team’s offensive outbursts. Vancouver Canucks’ Quinn Hughes leads the way in the NHL betting.
Calder Memorial Trophy
For the Rookie of the Year, the competition is fierce among the newcomers. One young player, in particular, has shown exceptional skill and maturity, making him a strong contender for the Calder Memorial Trophy and despite missing 14 games due to injury Chicago Blackstar star rookie is the heavy favorite to win the Calder Memorial Trophy.
Selke Trophy (Best Defensive Forward)
The Selke Trophy is often one of the most challenging predictions, but this year a forward has consistently excelled in his defensive responsibilities, making him the frontrunner for this award.
The NHL Awards 2024 have already announced some worthy winners of the Art Ross Trophy, The Maurice Richard Trophy and the Presidents Trophy, with more winners yet to be announced, the excitement continues to build.
Reflecting on the achievements of the 2023 winners provides a reminder of the high caliber expected in professional hockey. As we look forward to the awards and the NHL draft, the predictions and debates will surely keep fans engaged and anticipating. Whether looking back or forecasting forward, the NHL Awards remain a celebration of excellence in hockey, highlighting not just the stars of today but also those of tomorrow.