The NHL regular season is more than through the halfway point of the 2022-2023 NHL regular season. It is never too early to talk about the Hart Trophy (MVP). A season ago, Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs won this award.
The candidates for the award this season are more than interesting. Who are the picks potentially to be finalists for the Hart Trophy this season?
Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers
Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers is a centerman and is currently the best player in the world in the NHL. In 50 games so far this season for Edmonton, he has scored 41 goals and has recorded 51 assists. His plus/minus rating is 4. McDavid leads the league with 92 total points. It is possible by the end of the season, 150 points are possible.
It is insane to think about in today's game. Connor McDavid is most likely going to win this award unanimously this season and it wouldn't come as a surprise to anyone.
David Pastrnak, Boston Bruins
David Pastrnak of the Boston Bruins is one of the reasons why Boston currently has the top record in the NHL so far this season. Pastrnak has played in 50 games so far this season and has scored 38 goals and recorded 33 assists, along with a plus/minus rating of +24.
He is currently in a contract season. David Pastrnak hopes to get that contract extension with the Bruins and be with the franchise for a very long time.
Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils
Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils is one of the reasons why New Jersey has made a massive jump this season in the NHL. They are in one of the playoff spots in the Metropolitan Division and should be in the playoffs come springtime. Hughes has played in 49 games so far this season and has scored 33 goals and recorded 31 assists. His plus/minus rating is 16.
He is going to make a case for the Hart Trophy finalist. His hard work has finally paid off.