The player you’re referring to is most likely Elias Pettersson, who has indeed emerged as a serious contender for the Hart Trophy in the upcoming NHL season. Pettersson, who is already well-established as a key player for the Vancouver Canucks, has continued to develop into one of the league’s premier forwards. After a stellar 2023-24 season where he posted impressive numbers, he has solidified himself as a franchise cornerstone and one of the top players in the NHL.
Given his exceptional two-way play, offensive talent, and leadership on the ice, Pettersson is positioned as a legitimate candidate to be the Canucks’ MVP and potentially challenge for the Hart Trophy. If Vancouver performs well and makes a playoff push, his chances would only increase, especially if he continues to elevate his game.
While Thatcher Demko’s health and JT Miller’s consistency are crucial to the team’s success, it’s Pettersson who stands out as the most likely candidate to win individual accolades like the Hart Trophy.
Quinn Hughes is a blueliner who could easily take the Hart this season
Quinn Hughes absolutely has a strong case to make for the Hart Trophy, and his recent dominance as the top defenseman in the league, culminating in his Norris Trophy win, puts him firmly in that conversation. While it’s rare for defensemen to win the Hart, Hughes has the skill set and numbers to make a legitimate run at the award.
His 92 points last season (17 goals and 75 assists) were eye-popping for a defenseman and made him a crucial driver of the Canucks’ offense. Add his stellar advanced metrics, like the 57.5 Corsi For Percentage and 13.0 on-ice shooting percentage at even strength, and you see how much of an impact he had on the ice both offensively and defensively. His on-ice save percentage of 91.0 at even strength, despite Vancouver’s goalie instability, further highlights his ability to influence the game in all areas.
For Hughes to be a serious Hart Trophy contender, the Canucks will need to be competitive and likely make a strong playoff push. The Hart typically goes to players whose contributions have a direct impact on their team’s success. Given his elite playmaking, defensive acumen, and leadership as the Canucks’ captain, Hughes could very well be one of the few defensemen in recent history to challenge for the Hart. His game-changing presence in all zones makes him more than just a dark horse—he’s a serious candidate.
