Top prospects eye Calder Trophy

As the NHLPA Rookie Showcase unfolds in Chicago, Gavin McKenna and Cole Hutson are emerging as early frontrunners for the 2027 Calder Trophy, according to multiple top prospects. The Hockey News reports that Anaheim Ducks' Roger McQueen and Pittsburgh Penguins' Bill Zonnon have expressed strong support for McKenna, with Zonnon calling him an 'easy choice' for the award.

McKenna, the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs, boasts a remarkable track record, including being named Big Ten Freshman of the Year after scoring 51 points in 35 games at Penn State University.

He aims to help the Maple Leafs return to the playoffs and has set his sights on winning the Calder Trophy in his rookie season. Meanwhile, Hutson, a defense prospect for the Washington Capitals, is also considered a strong contender.

Fellow Capitals prospect Andrew Cristall noted Hutson's impressive performance, scoring three goals and ten points in 14 games last season. Hutson's potential to challenge McKenna is highlighted by BetMGM's odds, which place him among the top five favorites for the Calder Trophy, alongside other notable rookies like Ivar Stenberg and Anton Frondell.

With both players showcasing their skills at the rookie showcase, the anticipation builds for their impact in the upcoming NHL season.