As the NHL regular season ends, the top players are being recognised for their brilliant performances. This year, big names like Leon Draisaitl, Nikita Kucherov and Connor Hellebuyck took home top honours for goal-scoring, points, and goalkeeping. Let’s take a look at what made their seasons so special.
Leon Draisaitl Wins His First Rocket Richard Trophy
Edmonton Oilers’ star center Leon Draisaitl had a standout season, scoring the most goals in the league. With 52 goals in just 71 games, he became the top goal-scorer and won the Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophy for the first time in his career.
Even though he scored more in past seasons (55 goals in 2021-22 and 52 in 2022-23), this is the first time his number led the league. He was seven goals ahead of Toronto Maple Leafs’ William Nylander, who finished second with 45 goals.
Out of Draisaitl’s 52 goals:
- 36 came during regular play (even strength)
- 16 were on power plays
- 6 came in overtime
- 11 were game-winning goals
His 52 goals are also the fewest to win the Rocket Richard Trophy in a full 82-game season since 2018-19, when Alex Ovechkin scored 51. Despite missing 11 games, Draisaitl stayed at the top of the goal-scoring list from mid-December till the end.
Kucherov Grabs His Third Art Ross Trophy
Tampa Bay Lightning’s Nikita Kucherov ended the season as the league’s top point-scorer and claimed his third Art Ross Trophy. He finished with 121 points, five ahead of Nathan MacKinnon from the Colorado Avalanche, who had 116 points.
Kucherov’s consistency made the difference. He earned points in 65 out of 78 games and had 17 games where he scored three points or more. He made a strong push at the end of the season, picking up five points in his last three games.
This win puts Kucherov among the NHL’s elite. He is now only the 10th player in NHL history to win the Art Ross Trophy at least three times since it was first introduced back in 1947-48.
Connor Hellebuyck Wins Jennings Trophy for Best Goalie Defense
Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets was honoured with the William M. Jennings Trophy. This award is given to the goalie or goalies who help their team allow the fewest goals in a season. The Jets allowed just 190 goals (or 191, including shootout-deciding goals), the lowest in the league.
Hellebuyck had a great season with:
- 47 wins
- Only 12 losses
- A strong .925 save percentage
- A low 2.00 goals-against average
- 8 shutouts in 63 games
His backup, Eric Comrie, also played well in 20 games, helping the Jets secure this award with a solid overall performance.
A Memorable Season Comes to a Close
The 2024-25 NHL season brought fans plenty of action, surprises, and memorable moments. Leon Draisaitl proved his scoring power, Nikita Kucherov showed his skill in racking up points, and Connor Hellebuyck was a wall in goal. As award season starts, these three players will definitely be remembered for their brilliant performances.
Their dedication, consistency, and leadership helped their teams and thrilled fans all over the world. With the playoffs and more awards to come, hockey fans have even more to look forward to.
