With the All-Star break here, it’s time for a rookie of the year update to see who the front runner is for the Calder Trophy. Now with half of this season over it’s a good time to get a read on the rookies working to make a name for them.
Anton Lundell (Florida Panthers, Forward)
Lundell has made a real impact while playing for one of the top teams in the league. Thus far he has recorded a solid 10 goals and 32 points in 43 games this year. His biggest accomplishment as a rookie would have to be his +25 though. That +/- is very respectable for only having nearly 16:30 for an average time on ice. Though he doesn’t lead in any categories other +/-, Anton is really making a name for himself with the Panthers. Playing on their third line, Lundell hasn’t necessarily had the opportunities to rack up the points, but in the minimal time on ice he has helped carry the team to the top of the standings.
Lucas Raymond (Detroit Red Wings, Forward)
Raymond has stepped into a major role for the Red Wings quickly this year. He went from questioning if he’d get put on the roster, or if he’d spend the year down at the Griffins. Rather than being sent down, he earned his spot on the top line. After playing 47 games this year, he has tallied 11 goals and a total of 35 points. His point total puts him in the top spot of all rookies.
Tanner Jeannot (Nashville Predators, Forward)
Tanner is playing in his first full season right now with the Predators. With his help in goal-scoring, they’ve been able to be competitive in a tough Central Division. Tanner is leading all rookies in goals scored so far with 14. If he keeps up this pace he could finish the year off with 25 goals. He has really found his groove with the surging Predators, it’ll be great to see if he can make a push to get the Calder.
Conclusion
As the season heats up, so does the Calder race. It is a lot more than a three-way race. Raymond’s teammate Moritz Seider is a serious contender too. Michael Bunting from the Toronto Maple Leafs still has a chance at the award as well. It’ll be a very exciting finish to this year. Keep an eye out on these rookies as well as the possibility of someone going red hot down the stretch.
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