Connor Bedard, Brock Faber and Luke Hughes are this year's finalists for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the NHL's top rookie. The NHL has announced the three finalists for the 2024 Calder Trophy. Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard, Minnesota Wild defenseman Brock Faber and New Jersey Devils blueliner Luke Hughes are all in the running to be named the NHL's top rookie this season, as voted on by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association. Bedard, 18, entered this season with a plethora of hype surrounding him. It was justifiable, as he was selected first overall in the 2023 NHL draft and was viewed as the league's biggest prospect since Connor McDavid. He lived up to expectations in his first season. Connor Bedard [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA1ODUyNDE2MjA0MDg4MzY1/usatsi_23043339_168400847_lowres.jpg] Connor Bedard In 68 games for the rebuilding Blackhawks, he led all NHL rookies with 22 goals and 61 points. As a result, he's a clear front-runner. Faber, 21, had a magnificent rookie season with the Wild. In 82 games, the 2020 second-round pick had eight goals and 47 points. Getting that kind of production from a rookie defenseman is excellent, but that is only the tip of the iceberg. Faber blossomed into a top-pairing defenseman this season for the Wild because of his dependable defensive play and a season-ending injury to Jared Spurgeon. With that, Faber became a key contributor to their power play and penalty kill. He showed the potential of a true No. 1 defender this year, and he's in the running for the Calder because of it. Hughes was a bright spot in a disappointing season for the Devils. The 20-year-old flexed his offensive muscles from the point, posting nine goals and 47 points. He led all Devils defensemen in points this season and ranked fifth on the club. Overall, Hughes showed immense promise this season, and it makes sense that he has been nominated for the Calder. The future is bright for the 2021 fourth overall pick.
