This is the final edition of the Calder Tracker for the 2024-25 season. That means it’s time to put together my unofficial ballot for the NHL’s rookie of the year award.
In each of the last two years of doing the monthly Calder Tracker, I identified each of the finalists and the winner, nailing the order of all three last year. With that said, let’s get to the top five on my unofficial ballot for the Calder.
1. Lane Hutson, D, Montreal Canadiens
Lane Hutson was a machine for the Montreal Canadiens, transforming the way they played. Not only did he lead all NHL rookies in scoring, but he finished sixth in scoring among all defenseman and tied for second in assists with Quinn Hughes, behind just Cale Makar.
Hutson’s 60 assists tied Larry Murphy for the NHL’s all-time rookie record for a defenseman. His ability to push the pace and drive offense from the back end is special. Although the conversation about Hutson getting into the Norris Trophy conversation seems a bit premature, that is the level of difference he’s making.
The debate between Hutson and Celebrini raged on virtually all year. Michkov and Wolf both presented challenges to the duo atop the Calder race every month, but it always seemed to come down to the dynamic defender and the cerebral center.
Ultimately, Hutson’s historic seasons and his pivotal role in helping the Habs into the playoffs were the edge in the race at the end of the season. Both are deserving candidates, though.
2. Macklin Celebrini, C, San Jose Sharks
There wasn’t much more that Celebrini could have done this season.
The 2024 first-overall pick was dynamite in his first NHL season, seamlessly stepping into the San Jose lineup and asserting himself as the No. 1 center. He put up 25 goals and 63 points as a rookie on a team that struggled all year long. What was most impressive, though, was that although he missed a dozen games after making his NHL debut in the season opener, he was able to consistently keep the Sharks’ vibes high.
If Celebrini wins the award, it would be well deserved. Although the points were impressive, his ability to excel at the finer details of the game, from winning puck battles to positioning himself on zone exits to providing an outlet when he wasn’t the primary puck carrier, Celebrini stepped into the NHL with the poise and steadiness of a 10-year veteran.
3. Dustin Wolf, G, Calgary Flames
Although he fell out of the race down the stretch, Wolf’s season with the Flames was incredible.
He was the team’s clear MVP despite it being his first season. Wolf came into the year and took hold of the starter job in the Flames crease. He was truly impressive from start to finish.
At one point, the Flames couldn’t get a win without their rookie goaltender in net.
His poise, battle and proficiency were all part of what made him a dark horse for Vezina votes at points in the season. Wolf belongs in the conversation for rookie of the year, and he more than deserves a finalist nod. In most seasons, what he did would likely earn him the honor, as he was one of the best rookie netminders we’ve seen in a long time.
4. Matvei Michkov, RW, Philadelphia Flyers
He’s had some ups and downs this year, as most rookies do, but Michkov wound up with 63 points on the season, finishing second in scoring and first in goals.
Michkov finished the year strong, really taking off after coach John Tortorella was let go. Michkov brought dynamism and skill to a Flyers lineup that desperately needed an injection of it, and with the trades of many key players throughout this season, you could see Michkov taking on a bigger role. He finished second in team scoring behind just Travis Konecny but well ahead of the rest of the pack.
5. Will Smith, C/W, San Jose Sharks
Smith was one of the hottest rookies down the stretch. He adapted to the NHL’s pace and really brought together his skills and playmaking to impact the game.
He made a late surge up the scoring list among rookies and showcased his highlight-reel dangles and pristine passing ability throughout the final couple of months this season. He wound up finishing fourth in rookie scoring on a team that needed him to be the catalyst when Celebrini wasn’t on the ice.
Honorable Mentions: Cutter Gauthier (ANA), Marco Kasper (DET), Logan Stankoven (CAR), Maxim Tsyplakov (NYI)
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