Is Ivan Demidov the Front-Runner For the Calder?

Has Demidov been the NHL's best rookie so far this year?

Coming into this year, Ivan Demidov was the front-runner to win the Calder Trophy - the award given to the NHL's best rookie. His exceptional play in the KHL last year, coupled with his flash of brilliance during the playoffs, made Montreal fans excited about his potential this year.

He's been great this year, while not exactly playing with bona fide players (sorry Kapanen, Newhook, Slafkovsky, and Texier). He has 20 points in 26 games, which is on pace for over 60 points this season. He's tied for first in rookie scoring as well. He's made Montreal's power play way deadlier than last year and is a big reason for the team's increased offensive output.

But he has been the best rookie in the league?

Matthew Schaefer is the obvious rival to Demidov. The first overall pick has been phenomenal this year. He has 8 goals and 20 points, tying Ivan for the rookie scoring lead, although he's played two more games than Demidov has. He's also a defender, and playing over 20 minutes a night. He's also an elite defender, with a plus-minus of +9.

I do think Schaefer had been more valuable to the Islanders than Demidov has been to the Habs, but only barely. It's close, but I think Matthew has been slightly better.

There's also Beckett Sennecke, who, out of nowhere, also has 20 points to be tied in first for rookie scoring. His 7 goals and point production are a big reason for the Ducks' scoring and success this season. Props to him.

I guess I should also mention Ryan Leonard... who isn't tied for first in rookie scoring with only 18 measly points. His season stats are inflated by a 4-point performance against the league powerhouse San Jose Sharks... so it's clear he feasts on bad teams and goes invisible against actual good opponents (as evident with his 1 point in 8 playoff games last year). But he's been good, I suppose.

I also want to give props to Demidov's linemate, Oliver Kapenen, who is fifth in scoring with 14 points and 7 goals. Some of these numbers are helped by Demidov's play, no doubt

In conclusion, I do think Ivan Demidov has been one of the best rookies in the NHL this year, but not the clear best. I think Schaefer has been the best rookie so far, while Demidov is tied for second with Sennecke. However, I do think he has room for more and could go on a hot streak to run away with the Calder later on in the season.

Article by Jacksen MacLean.