2025-26 NHL Award Predictions – Daily Faceoff Picks

October 7, 2025 David Thompson - Sports Editor Sports

Here’s a breakdown of⁤ the NHL award predictions from the provided text:

* Hart​ Trophy (most valuable player): Split vote, but many predict Connor McDavid.
* Norris Trophy (best defenseman): Shea Theodore is ‌receiving many votes.
* Selke⁤ Trophy (best defensive forward):‍ Nico Hischier (New Jersey Devils) ‌has‌ four votes, but Sam⁣ Reinhart (Florida Panthers)‍ is also a strong contender.
* Calder Trophy (best rookie): Not explicitly mentioned who the predictions⁤ are for.
* rocket Richard Trophy (leading goal scorer): Leon Draisaitl (Edmonton Oilers)⁣ is predicted to win.
* Art Ross Trophy (leading points getter): Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers) is⁢ predicted to win.
* Jack Adams Award (coach ‍of the year):‍ Not explicitly mentioned who the predictions are for.
* Vezina trophy (best goaltender): Jake Oettinger (Dallas Stars) ‌is a popular pick,despite connor Hellebuyck (Winnipeg Jets) being a recent winner.

The article also⁣ notes some interesting points:

* There’s discussion about whether the Edmonton⁢ Oilers might prioritize‌ load management for McDavid⁢ and Draisaitl over individual award pursuits, especially with ‍the 2026 ​Olympics approaching.
*‍ There’s a​ question ‌of whether playoff performance is unduly influencing the​ Vezina Trophy ‍predictions, possibly undervaluing Hellebuyck.
* Aleksander Barkov’s absence⁤ opens up the Selke⁤ Trophy⁢ race.