The NHL offseason has mostly wrapped up, with many top free agents securing new teams ahead of the 2025-26 season. Most clubs have finalized their rosters in preparation for training camp this fall. With free agency settled, Sportsbook has released betting odds for major NHL awards following the 2025-26 season, allowing bettors to predict which players might win key accolades.
Here’s a look at some of the notable awards and their leading candidates, with all odds provided by Fanduel Sportsbook.
Hart Trophy
Awarded annually to the NHL’s Most Valuable Player, the Hart Trophy hasn’t been won consecutively by the same player since Alex Ovechkin did so in 2007-08 and 2008-09. Last season, Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck took the honor, becoming the first goalie to win since Carey Price in 2014-15.
Favorite: Connor McDavid (+200)
McDavid remains the clear favorite, standing out in a league packed with talent. Although he missed winning last year, McDavid is a two-time Hart winner over the past five years and among the elite group of players with three or more Hart trophies, joining legends like Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe. This season might be McDavid’s last with the Oilers if contract talks don’t pan out, fueling his drive for top personal honors.Dark Horse: Auston Matthews (+1900)
Matthews has championship experience and the potential to carry a heavy offensive load for the Toronto Maple Leafs. A past Hart winner from his 60-goal season in 2021-22, Matthews could step up significantly this year.- Long Shot: Mitch Marner (+6000)
Marner’s move to the Vegas Golden Knights pairs him with top-line talent, including star center Jack Eichel. Despite needing an exceptional season to claim the Hart, playing for a Stanley Cup contender gives him a real shot.
Calder Trophy
Given to the top NHL rookie, last season’s winner was Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson, the third defensive player in six years to claim the trophy. This season features notable rookies like Matthew Schafer and Michael Misa competing for a roster spot.
Favorite: Ivan Demidov (+280)
Drafted fifth overall by Montreal in 2024, Demidov impressed in limited NHL action last season and is seen as a strong Calder contender due to his exceptional vision and hockey IQ.Dark Horse: Michael Misa (+1200)
San Jose Sharks’ second overall pick Misa dominated the OHL with 134 points last season and could make the NHL roster, bringing a high offensive ceiling.- Long Shot: Zayne Parekh (+2100)
Calgary Flames’ defenseman Parekh showed NHL readiness late last season and could secure a roster spot, especially if the Flames trade a fellow defenseman.
Vezina Trophy
This goes to the top NHL goaltender. Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets is a leading favorite after winning consecutive Vezinas and the Hart Trophy last season.
Favorite: Connor Hellebuyck (+310)
Hellebuyck’s stellar record and stats make him the leading candidate to repeat as Vezina winner.Dark Horse: Dustin Wolf (+1500)
Flames’ rookie Wolf had an impressive debut season and could challenge for the Vezina after stepping in as starting goalie.- Long Shot: Sergei Bobrovsky (+1900)
The veteran Panthers goalie remains effective with strong stats, making him a surprise contender.
Norris Trophy
Awarded to the league’s best defenseman, Colorado Avalanche’s Cale Makar is the favorite after winning the award last season.
Favorite: Cale Makar (+135)
Makar’s offensive brilliance and defensive consistency make him the frontrunner for another Norris Trophy.Dark Horse: Zach Werenski (+950)
Werenski’s scoring surge last season brings him into the conversation as a top defenseman.- Long Shot: Evan Bouchard (+3000)
Known for playmaking on defense, Bouchard could surprise, especially playing alongside elite forwards.
Fan Take: This offseason’s roster moves and award race set the stage for an electrifying NHL season, filled with rising stars and seasoned veterans competing at the highest level. Hockey fans should keep an eye on these players as their performances could shape the future of the sport and define legacies.
