NHL Awards Watch: Celebrini Emerges as MVP Contender Amid Competitive Norris Race

Looking Ahead: NHL Awards Watch for March 2026

The NHL awards season is upon us, and with the trade deadline behind us, the race to the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs is heating up. As the pressure mounts for players, voters from the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA) have shared their insights on who holds the edge among the contenders for the Hart, Norris, Calder, and Vezina trophies this March. With a focus on compelling players and tight races, the landscape of the NHL awards is ever-evolving.

The Hart Trophy Race: Can Celebrini Steal the Spotlight?

With just one month left in the regular season, the MVP race is particularly intriguing this year. Currently leading the pack is Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche, who has become an undeniable force. His 104 points in 61 games, including an NHL-high 43 goals, place him firmly at the forefront of the MVP race. However, the rise of Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks adds an exciting twist, as the 19-year-old rookie has become a household name, racking up 89 points this season.

“You could fit an eyelash between each of them in this race,” one PHWA voter noted, emphasizing the neck-and-neck competition this season.

Norris Trophy: Makar vs. Werenski

The Norris Trophy continues to stoke debates among hockey fans. This year, it's become a two-horse race, with Cale Makar of the Avalanche and Zach Werenski from the Columbus Blue Jackets not only matching each other statistically but also drawing passionate arguments from various voters. Currently, both Makar and Werenski are tied for first in first-place votes. Makar's skill and experience are increasingly evident, while Werenski's resilient performance as a leader makes him a strong contender.

A Closer Look at Celebrini's Impact

What makes Celebrini so captivating this season is his ability to drive team performance amid adversity. The Sharks find themselves in a rebuild, but Celebrini's poise and scoring prowess have rekindled hope among fans. Not only is he trying to drag his team back to playoff contention, but he also faces comparisons to hockey legends like Sidney Crosby, who won the MVP in his second season, just as Celebrini did. This narrative not only adds drama but enhances the anticipation of the upcoming Stanley Cup playoffs.

The Allure of the Calder Trophy Race

For the Calder Trophy, which honors the NHL's top rookie, Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders has emerged as a formidable candidate. With 46 points and an irrefutably impressive two-way game, Schaefer is showing that age is just a number. Fans and analysts alike are already carving out potential future discussions for his candidacy toward a Norris nomination, perfectly illustrating the depth of talent in this year's rookie class.

Understanding the Vezina Trophy Race

The Vezina Trophy for top goaltender is fiercely competitive this year. Andrei Vasilevskiy, from the Lightning, is currently leading the pack due to his remarkable performances, including a stunning fight in a recent Stadium Series game that electrified fans and teammates alike. Ilya Sorokin of the Islanders isn't far behind, boasting an impressive save percentage and making significant contributions when his team needs them most.

Who Will Emerge Victorious?

As we approach the final month of NHL action, the excitement surrounding these awards is palpable. Each award carries its own narrative and complexity, rich with statistics and passionate opinions from fans and voters alike. Whether it's the MVP race dominated by skilled forwards like MacKinnon and Celebrini, or the defensive prowess exhibited by Makar and Werenski, every award represents a compelling chapter in the story of the season. It will be thrilling to see who rises to the occasion as we hurtle towards the playoffs.

Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts on the current landscape of the NHL awards? Do you agree with the odds on the leading contenders? As we edge closer to the end of the season, feel free to share your predictions, insights, and commentary below!