NHL Awards Watch 2025: Hart, Norris, and Vezina Races Heat Up as Playoffs Approach

With the NHL playoffs just around the corner, the races for the league's most prestigious awards are heating up. Here's a breakdown of the current leaders and contenders for the Hart, Norris, and Vezina Trophies.

Hart Trophy (MVP)

Leader: Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche Finalists: Leon Draisaitl, Edmonton Oilers; Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets

Nathan MacKinnon has reclaimed the lead in the MVP race, edging out Connor Hellebuyck, who held a slim advantage last month. MacKinnon is aiming to become the first back-to-back MVP since Alex Ovechkin in 2007-09. His performance has been nothing short of spectacular, especially considering the Avalanche traded Mikko Rantanen earlier in the season. MacKinnon has not only maintained his scoring pace but has also elevated the play of his teammates, making a strong case for his second consecutive Hart Trophy.

Leon Draisaitl remains a close second, leading the NHL in goals and making a strong analytics case. Connor Hellebuyck, last month's leader, continues to receive significant support, with many voters crediting him for the Jets' success this season.

Norris Trophy (Top Defenseman)

Leader: Zach Werenski, Columbus Blue Jackets Finalists: Quinn Hughes, Vancouver Canucks; Cale Makar, Colorado Avalanche

Zach Werenski has surged to the top of the Norris Trophy race, thanks to his stellar play and the Blue Jackets' surprising playoff push. Werenski has been a workhorse, logging nearly 27 minutes per game and leading his team in scoring. His performance has not gone unnoticed, as he has garnered 48% of the first-place votes in our latest poll.

Quinn Hughes, who was the early favorite, has seen his stock drop due to injuries, while Cale Makar remains a strong contender, leading all defensemen in scoring.

Vezina Trophy (Top Goaltender)

Leader: Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets Finalists: Logan Thompson, Washington Capitals; Andrei Vasilevskiy, Tampa Bay Lightning

Connor Hellebuyck is the unanimous choice for the Vezina Trophy, with every voter surveyed placing him at the top of their ballots. Hellebuyck has been the backbone of the Jets' success, leading the league in traditional goalie stats and advanced metrics. His dominance in the crease has been a key factor in Winnipeg's push for the conference title.

Logan Thompson and Andrei Vasilevskiy round out the top three, with both goaltenders having strong seasons for their respective teams.

Calder Trophy (Top Rookie)

Leader: Macklin Celebrini, San Jose Sharks Finalists: Lane Hutson, Montreal Canadiens; Dustin Wolf, Calgary Flames

Macklin Celebrini continues to lead the Calder Trophy race, though his margin has narrowed as other rookies have stepped up. Celebrini has been a consistent offensive force for the Sharks, leading all rookies in points per game.

Dustin Wolf has solidified his case as the top rookie goaltender, while Lane Hutson has been a standout defenseman for the Canadiens.

Selke Trophy (Best Defensive Forward)

Leader: Aleksander Barkov, Florida Panthers Finalists: Mitch Marner, Toronto Maple Leafs; Sam Reinhart, Florida Panthers

Aleksander Barkov is the clear favorite for the Selke Trophy, continuing his dominance as the league's best defensive forward. Barkov has been a key player for the Panthers, earning 56% of the first-place votes.

Mitch Marner and Sam Reinhart are also in the mix, with both players making strong cases for the award.

Jack Adams Award (Best Coach)

Leader: Spencer Carbery, Washington Capitals Finalists: Scott Arniel, Winnipeg Jets; Dean Evason, Columbus Blue Jackets

Spencer Carbery is the frontrunner for the Jack Adams Award, receiving 63% of the first-place votes. Carbery has guided the Capitals to the top of the NHL standings, earning widespread praise for his coaching acumen.

Dean Evason and Scott Arniel are also strong candidates, with both coaches leading their teams to unexpected success this season.

As the NHL season enters its final stretch, the races for these prestigious awards are far from over. With so much at stake, the coming weeks promise to be thrilling for players, coaches, and fans alike.