Predictions for 2026-27 NHL award futures 

The NHL drops the puck tonight on Tuesday and in this extra-long 84-game season. We’re going to take a look at some of the awards and predictions for this season. Here is our blog on the Baseball Playoffs Betting Predictions. 

Hart Trophy — MVP: This isn’t simply the player with the most goals or points. It’s awarded to the player judged most valuable to his team during the regular season. 

Vezina Trophy — Best Goaltender: Goes to the NHL’s top goalie. Wins matter, but voters can also look closely at save percentage, goals-against average, shutouts, workload and the overall quality of the goaltender’s season. Unlike most major awards, the Vezina is voted on by the NHL’s general managers.

Norris Trophy — Best Defenseman: Awarded to the defenseman who demonstrates the greatest all-around ability at the position. Offensive production gets considerable attention, but defensive performance, puck possession, minutes, special teams and overall impact can matter too.

Selke Trophy — Best Defensive Forward:  Defensive responsibility is central. Matchups against top opponents, penalty killing, faceoffs, takeaways and overall two-way effectiveness can help shape the vote.

Calder Trophy — Rookie of the Year: Goes to the NHL’s top rookie.  Players must satisfy the NHL’s rookie-eligibility rules.

Art Ross Trophy — Most Points: This one is different because there’s essentially no subjective voting. Whoever finishes the regular season with the most combined goals + assists wins the Art Ross.

Rocket Richard Trophy — Most Goals: Also straightforward: the player who scores the most regular-season goals wins. 

Jack Adams Award — Coach of the Year: Awarded to the coach judged to have contributed most to his team’s success. A coach whose team substantially exceeds expectations can attract considerable support.

Conn Smythe Trophy — Playoff MVP: This is important because it’s based on the entire Stanley Cup playoffs, not the regular season. The winner also does not technically have to play for the Stanley Cup champion. Goalies can be particularly important candidates because a dominant postseason goalie can dramatically affect a playoff run.

(odds from Draft Kings)

Stanley Cup Champ

Florida Panthers +650

Eastern Conference

Florida +320

Western Conference

Dallas +700