The NHL Calder Trophy race for the 2025-26 season has narrowed down to three standout rookies. Anaheim Ducks forward Beckett Sennecke, Montreal Canadiens winger Ivan Demidov, and New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer have emerged as frontrunners. With just over a month left in the regular season, their performance has captivated fans and analysts alike.
Calder Trophy Contenders: Meet the Leaders
While contenders like Minnesota Wild goaltender Jesper Wallstedt and Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin are impressive, Sennecke, Demidov, and Schaefer are leading the narrative through consistency and skill.
Matthew Schaefer: The Dominant Defender
Matthew Schaefer is having one of the best seasons for a rookie defender in NHL history. Drafted first overall, Schaefer’s 20 goals puts him just three shy of breaking the record for rookie defensemen held by Brian Leetch, who scored 23 goals in 1989. With 18 games remaining, he is on pace to potentially score 25 goals this season and reach 60 points—an achievement only accomplished by Lane Hutson last year.
- Current Goals: 20
- Expected Goals (ytd): 11.7
- Average Ice Time: 24:16 minutes
- Penalties Drawn: 60 (2nd among defenders)
Known for his exceptional skating, Schaefer’s ability to control the puck makes him a formidable opponent. He doesn’t just play defense—he drives the pace of the game and creates scoring chances.
Beckett Sennecke: The Emerging Power Forward
Beckett Sennecke has made a significant impact in his rookie season with the Anaheim Ducks. Selected third overall in 2024, Sennecke recently became the first freshman forward to reach 20 goals this season and has amassed over 50 points. His 6-foot-3, 205-pound frame and skill level make him a unique player on the ice.
- Current Goals: 20
- Current Points: 50+
Sennecke not only contributes offensively but also excels in physical play, utilizing his size effectively against opponents. His combination of strength and skill positions him as a future power forward in the league.
Ivan Demidov: The Playmaking Winger
Ivan Demidov has been a revelation for the Montreal Canadiens. At just 20 years old, his production has been remarkable since transitioning from the KHL. With a projected nearly 65 points this season, Demidov has garnered attention for his high-end passing and ability to elevate his teammates’ performance.
- Average Points per 60 Minutes: 2.54
- Assists per 60 Minutes: 1.78
Demidov ranks sixth in assists among NHL players with over 700 minutes of playing time, showcasing his ranking alongside stars like Nikita Kucherov and Nathan MacKinnon. His influence is evident in his line’s performance, particularly with Oliver Kapanen and Juraj Slafkovsky.
The Road Ahead
The race for the Calder Trophy is heating up, with Schaefer, Sennecke, and Demidov leading the charge. While all three rookies have made significant contributions to their teams, Schaefer’s history-making season as a defender makes him the probable favorite. The dynamics of this year’s Calder race underline how each player brings unique strengths to the ice, promising exciting hockey as the playoffs approach.
