We’re now at the midpoint of the 2025-26 NHL season, marking the perfect time for mid-season award insights. While 31 teams still have plenty of hockey ahead, the Colorado Avalanche appear poised to dominate the accolades. Leading the Hart Trophy conversation are Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid, with MacKinnon delivering consistent excellence throughout the season, although McDavid’s recent surge has tightened the race as he pushes the Edmonton Oilers toward the playoffs. Another standout for this prestigious individual award is Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks, who quickly revitalized his team.
On defense, Cale Makar remains a prime Norris Trophy candidate, and Avalanche coach Jared Bednar is a strong contender for the Jack Adams Award, breaking the usual pattern. The Avalanche might miss out on the Vezina and Calder Trophies, which have wide-open races, but Matthew Schaefer is emerging as a top rookie candidate for the Calder Trophy.
Here are the key award frontrunners so far:
Hart Trophy | Nathan MacKinnon | Avalanche
Although McDavid has ramped up his play recently, MacKinnon’s season-long performance positions him as the clear favorite. He’s on pace for a career-high 70 goals and 148 points. Beyond stats, MacKinnon’s influence is undeniable; when on ice at 5-on-5, Colorado outscored opponents 58-16, giving him a remarkable plus-42 goal differential, far ahead of any other player.
Runner-up: Connor McDavid, Oilers
Norris Trophy | Cale Makar | Avalanche
Makar aims to secure his second consecutive Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman. While not a shutdown defender, his ability to control the puck and limit opposing offenses is exceptional. With 47 points in 41 games, he’s on track for a career-best season. His plus-25 differential at 5-on-5, robust against strong competition, reinforces his value.
Runner-up: Moritz Seider, Red Wings
Vezina Trophy | Jesper Wallstedt | Wild
The Vezina race is highly competitive, but Wallstedt stands out despite fewer games played. He has saved an above-average 15.5 goals in just 14 games, holds a .926 save percentage, an .854 high-danger save percentage, and nearly a quarter of his starts have been shutouts. However, sustaining this form over a full season remains the big question, with backups like Spencer Knight, Scott Wedgewood, and Logan Thompson waiting in the wings.
Runner-up: Spencer Knight, Blackhawks
Calder Trophy | Matthew Schaefer | Islanders
The Islanders’ top draft pick Schaefer, just 18, has quickly adapted, tallying 12 goals and 16 assists from defense in 42 games. His balanced play at even strength and a plus-12 goal differential mark him as a solid rookie standout. Wallstedt could challenge him for this honor if his performance continues to impress.
Runner-up: Jesper Wallstedt, Wild
Jack Adams Award | Jared Bednar | Avalanche
Traditionally awarded to coaches who exceed expectations with modest rosters, Bednar is redefining standards by leading Colorado to historic dominance. The Avalanche sport a stellar 31-3-7 record, pushing toward a record-breaking 138 points. They lead the NHL in 5-on-5 expected goals share (57.3%) and both goals scored and allowed. Their only weak spot is the power play, but that is likely to improve.
Runner-up: John Cooper, Lightning
Fan Take: The Colorado Avalanche’s sweeping dominance across multiple award categories underscores their exceptional team-building and execution, signaling they are a powerhouse to watch this season and beyond. For hockey fans, these mid-season accolades highlight rising stars and emerging talents, promising an exciting future for the sport.
