The 2021 NHL Awards show held in Las Vegas was a night to remember for Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon. MacKinnon took home the prestigious Hart Memorial Trophy as the league’s MVP and also clinched the Ted Lindsay Award for being the most outstanding player in the NHL as voted upon by the NHL Players Association. This double win marked a significant achievement for MacKinnon, who had a stellar season with a career-high 140 points. His outstanding performance on the ice earned him both accolades for the first time in his career.
Another standout player at the awards show was Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard, who was named the league’s top rookie and awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy. Bedard, the No. 1 overall draft pick in the previous year, lived up to the hype surrounding him by leading all rookies with 61 points. His impressive stats included 22 goals and 39 assists, solidifying his place as a rising star in the NHL.
Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was recognized with the Vezina Trophy for being the top goalie in the league. Hellebuyck, who also won the Vezina in 2020, boasted impressive stats with a 2.39 goals-against average, a .921 save percentage, and five shutouts during the season. His stellar performance between the pipes solidified his status as one of the top goaltenders in the NHL.
Meanwhile, Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks secured the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the top defenseman in the league. Hughes, who won the award for the first time, led all defensemen with 92 points, 75 assists, and 17 goals throughout the season. His exceptional skill and contribution to his team’s success earned him this prestigious accolade.
In addition to the major awards, there were other deserving winners announced earlier in the evening. Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov received the Selke Trophy for the second time in four years, recognizing him as the top defensive forward in the league. Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Jaccob Slavin was honored with the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy for his sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct, marking his second win in this category.
Rick Tocchet of the Vancouver Canucks was named the recipient of the Jack Adams Award as the NHL’s coach of the year for leading his team to the Pacific Division title. Lastly, Dallas Stars GM Jim Nill was recognized as the Jim Gregory General Manager of the Year Award winner, highlighting his exceptional work behind the scenes to build a successful team.
The 2021 NHL Awards show was a celebration of talent, dedication, and sportsmanship. The winners of the prestigious awards showcased their skill and commitment to their craft, solidifying their places in NHL history. The night was a reminder of the incredible athletes and leaders within the league who continue to inspire fans around the world with their outstanding performances.
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