The 2024-25 NHL season has been a rollercoaster, and as we head into the final stretch, the Calder Trophy race is heating up. Three rookies-Macklin Celebrini, Dustin Wolf, and Lane Hutson-have lit up the league, each leaving an undeniable mark on their teams. But as the Montreal Canadiens cling to a wild card spot, it’s Lane Hutson’s jaw-dropping performance that should cement his name on the Calder Trophy. Let’s break it down.
Macklin Celebrini: The Sharks’ Beacon of Hope
First, let’s talk about Macklin Celebrini, the San Jose Sharks’ electrifying forward. In 67 games, with only four left to play, Celebrini has racked up 62 points (24 goals, 38 assists). That’s not just a great rookie season—it’s a statement. Alongside Will Smith, Celebrini has given Sharks fans something to cheer for on a team that’s still rebuilding. San Jose won’t make the playoffs, but they’re more competitive than last year, and Celebrini’s joy on the ice is infectious. He’s not just scoring; he’s shifting the culture, giving fans hope for a brighter future.But here’s the thing: Celebrini’s freedom to play without playoff pressure lets him shine with a certain lightness. If the Sharks were in a do-or-die race, would the vibes be as upbeat? His impact is undeniable—mesmerizing, even—but the lack of stakes temper his Calder case just a bit in my opinion.
Dustin Wolf: Calgary’s Backbone
Over in Calgary, Dustin Wolf has been a revelation in net for the Flames. With a record of 27 wins, 16 losses, and 8 ties, plus a .909 save percentage, Wolf has single-handedly dragged Calgary forward. The Flames made small trades midseason to bolster their roster, a nod to Wolf’s brilliance and the team’s belief in a playoff push. His presence gave Calgary a spark, a sense that they’d found their backstop of the future.Unfortunately, the Flames fell short, bumped out by a St. Louis Blues miracle run that echoes their 2019 magic. Wolf’s season was incredible, but without a playoff berth, his Calder candidacy loses a touch of urgency. Still, Calgary fans know they’ve got a gem who’ll anchor their crease for years.
Lane Hutson: A Historic Defenseman
And then there’s Lane Hutson. Holy smokes, where do you even start? The Montreal Canadiens defenseman has put up a staggering 64 points (6 goals, 54 assists) this season. Let that sink in: 64 points as a rookie defenseman. That’s not just great—it’s historic. Hutson’s numbers put him in the same conversation as Hall of Famers like Brian Leetch, Gary Suter, and Ray Bourque. Those guys set rookie defenseman records in the high-scoring ‘70s and ‘80s, when goaltending was a far cry from today’s elite netminders. Hutson’s doing this in 2025, against tighter defenses and sharper goalies.What makes Hutson’s case even stronger? The Canadiens are holding onto a wild card spot, and he’s a massive reason why. His playmaking—those 54 assists!—has been a game-changer for Montreal, elevating their offense and giving fans hope of a postseason run. This isn’t just a great rookie season; it’s a performance that could redefine what we expect from a defenseman. If Hutson keeps improving, as most rookies do, we might be watching the greatest offensive blueliner to ever lace ‘em up.
The Calder Case: Why Hutson Stands Out
Celebrini and Wolf have been phenomenal, no question. Celebrini’s brought joy and promise to San Jose, and Wolf’s given Calgary a foundation to build on. But Hutson’s season is on another level. His point total is unprecedented for a rookie defenseman in the modern era, and he’s doing it while helping Montreal stay in the playoff hunt. That combination of individual brilliance and team impact is what the Calder Trophy rewards. Look at the context: Celebrini’s playing with the freedom of a non-contender, and Wolf couldn’t quite push Calgary over the hump. Hutson, meanwhile, is delivering Hall of Fame-level production while carrying the weight of a team fighting for postseason glory. That’s the difference-maker.
A Regret and a Hope
I’ll be honest—I regret not watching more Habs games this season. Hutson’s emergence is the kind of story that makes you fall in love with hockey all over again. We might be witnessing the start of a career that lands him on the NHL’s Mount Rushmore of defensemen someday. For now, though, let’s give credit where it’s due: Lane Hutson deserves the Calder Trophy for a season that’s not just great, but legendary.
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