Ever since the beginning of the 2021-2022 season, one of the highly discussed talks in the NHL is about the Calder Memorial Trophy. Especially since this season, there are a couple of talented rookies in a tight race to make it to the top.

The top rookies, right now, that you may be familiar with now are Moritz Seider, Lucas Raymond, and Trevor Zegras. Each of these players is different in several ways, but they are all Calder contenders. So let’s dive in and see how they all differ from each other. And maybe even find out who is most likely to win.

Moritz Seider (Defenseman)

Today, Detroit Red Wings Moritz Seider is fourth in the Calder race with 41 points so far in the season. Seider is the top defenseman with five goals and 36 assists. He is the future of the Red Wings, and some may disagree, but he is the best defenseman for the Wings. The rookie has blocked 116 shots and has 96 hits throughout this season. Red Wings fans love Seider. I mean, who doesn’t? He will continue his outstanding performance throughout the season and climb the ranks for the Calder.

Lucas Raymond (Forward)

Red Wings Lucas Raymond is second so far in the Calder race. The rookie has 45 points, including one first-place vote. With 59 games played, Raymond has 18 goals and 27 assists. He is by far the fan favorite during this season. Detroit’s top line, which includes Dylan Larkin and Tyler Bertuzzi, immediately turned to Raymond. As long as Raymond stays healthy, he should be on his way to winning the Calder title, and before he knows it, he will be battling for scoring honors with the league’s top wingers.

Trevor Zegras (Forward)

Anaheim Ducks Trevor Zegras has many eyes on him. Ranking in at third so far, Zegras has 44 points, and with 55 games he has 16 goals and 28 assists. Many fans know Zegras has a lot of personalities and loves to show it on the ice, clearly. From the Alley-Oop Pass to the Michigan goal, he’s fun to watch. He’s a playmaker on the ice and isn’t afraid to try anything new. If there is anyone, who can take the Calder from Raymond, it is Zegras.

Jamie Drysdale (Defenseman)

Ducks Jamie Drysdale is the second rookie among defensemen with 25 points. Most people don’t talk about him much, I’d say he’s underrated. He has three goals and 22 assists throughout this season. Drysdale has had a great season so far, the 19-year-old has been a great addition for the Ducks. Along with Zegras, Drysdale is also the future of the Ducks. He may not win the Calder, but he’s got a lot of talent on the ice.

Seider and Raymond

If we take a look at Seider and Raymond, they are like a duo. They both get along well on and off the ice and they’re close friends. Being able to vent, talk, joke around, and hang out with Seider has been a big help, said Raymond. With their strong connection, they can play great together on the ice. Which is why they are Calder contenders.

“Whether it’s just hanging out off the ice, or having someone to talk to or whatever, it could be since both of us are here without friends and family except for the guys on the team, but outside of hockey, it’s really nice to have (another young player to talk to) and we get along great,” Raymond said. “I lived with him in the beginning (of the season); that was real nice as well. We had a great time,” stated the Detroit News.

Here’s an episode of the MoJoe Show hosted by Seider and Raymond!

Zegras and Drysdale

Just like Seider and Raymond, Zegras and Drysdale are great pals on and off the ice. The rookies used to live together as well before when they played for the San Diego Gulls. Their connection on the ice has helped the Ducks dominate games. If Anaheim never had Zegras and Drysdale, they’d be completely different, and not in a good way. I would say that Seider and Raymond are stronger together than Zegras and Drysdale but they are all rookies and will change over the years.

Who Will Be the Calder Winner?

Everyone has different opinions on who will be the winner for the Calder. Honestly, it’s hard to judge because many of the rookies are close in points. As of now, Zegras and Raymond are only one point apart, anything can happen. But by looking at the statistics over the season, one may get a better shot at predicting who will win. I would think that Seider will take the Calder home, but I’m also certain Zegras could take it if he keeps getting more points each game. Who do you think is going to take the Calder trophy?

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