Examining top candidates for NHL's Calder Trophy thus far

The NHL is just about halfway through its season, and with that, there have been plenty of impressive first-year players. The Calder Trophy, given to the best rookie, should be a tight race between several candidates.

Let's take a look at the top three candidates for the NHL's Calder Trophy.

Lane Hutson, defenseman, Montreal Canadiens

Huston, who previously played at Boston University, has had an impressive start to his career. As a defenseman, he currently leads all rookies with 36 points in 44 games and ranks third on the Canadiens in points. 

He also is first in average time on ice, with just under 23 minutes per game, and has been an elite distributor on the power play (14 power-play assists, first among rookies).

Hutson's play on Montreal's blue line has been a big reason why the Canadiens have surprised many this season. The Habs are right in the wild-card race, sitting just a point behind the Boston Bruins with two games in hand. If the team can keep up this play, Huston certainly has a good chance at the Calder.

Matvei Michkov, winger, Philadelphia Flyers

Michkov, a Russian who was taken seventh overall in 2023, has been just as expected. A top prospect leading up to the draft, he slipped to seventh as many NHL teams worried he'd stay in Russia for several years. Michkov left his Russian team this past summer, signing with the Flyers much earlier than anticipated.

So far, Michkov has excelled. His 32 points in 44 games are second among rookies and his six power-play goals lead all. He also ranks second on the Flyers in points.

Like Montreal, Philadelphia is also in the Eastern Conference wild-card hunt; they currently are three points back of the Bruins, and Michkov is a big reason why. If he continues his scoring pace, he should be a finalist for rookie of the year.

Macklin Celebrini, center, San Jose Sharks

Celebrini, the first overall pick in 2024, got off to a bit of a slow start initially, missing some time due to an injury. Since he's returned from that injury, he's been exceptional. His 32 points in 35 games are tied for second-most among rookies and his 0.91 points per game is first. 

Some of his highlight reel plays include this feed to William Eklund: