New Jersey Devils defenseman Luke Hughes has been named a Calder Trophy Finalist. The award is given "to the player selected as the most proficient in his first year of competition."
Hughes made his NHL debut in the final two games of the season for the Devils during the 2022-23 season. He then went on to play in three playoff games. The 2023-24 season was his first official season in the NHL and it was a great one.
He set multiple Devils' rookie defenseman records and is now deservedly being recognized for his stellar season.
Related: Devils' Luke Hughes Breaks Another Rookie Record
The 20-year-old played in all 82 games scoring nine goals and 47 points. Only Connor Bedard had more points than Hughes. He was also tied with Brock Faber, a defenseman on the Minnesota Wild.
No rookie had more power play points or assists than the youngest Hughes brother. He was also tied for the second most power play goals among rookies.
As the season went on, the young American's defensive game improved. He became more comfortable defending the rush and in his own end which allowed him to excel offensively. His breakouts were cleaner and his retrievals were faster. Both Lindy Ruff and Travis Green felt confident putting Hughes on the ice. His development may have been sped up due to Dougie Hamilton's season-ending injury, but Hughes stepped up and did everything the Devils asked of him.
Hughes will also represent Team USA at the 2024 IIHF Men's World Championship in May.
Bedard and Faber have strong cases for the Calder Trophy as well. Bedard led his team in goals, assists and points despite missing 14 games. His team was riddled with injuries but he still put together an impressive year. Faber's season should not be understated either. He averaged 24:58 seconds of ice time which was the sixth most in the NHL. He played hard minutes against the opponent's best players every night and was excellent.
All three candidates have strong cases and are more than deserving of the recognition they are receiving. The NHL will hold its annual Awards ceremony on June 27 in Las Vegas.
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