Seattle Kraken forward Matty Beniers, Buffalo Sabres defenceman Owen Power, and Edmonton Oilers netminder Stuart Skinner have been selected as the 2023 Calder Memorial Trophy finalists by the Professional Hockey Writers Association.
The Calder Trophy is an annual award, handed to the National Hockey League’s top rookie. Detroit Red Wings defender Moritz Seider scooped the accolade last season, beating out competition from forwards Trevor Zegras and Michael Bunting.
“Overall, very excited just to share that moment with my significant others and my agent and just very, very grateful for everything that happened tonight,” the German said last term.
This year is the first time in four seasons that a forward, defenceman, and goaltender are in the running for the award, with plenty of intrigue surrounding the final three.
That said, here is everything you need to know about finalists for the 2023 Calder Memorial Trophy, with insight from senior reporter Luke James.
Seattle Kraken’s Matty Beniers consolidates status as 2023 Calder Trophy favourite
Beniers is the leading contender for the Calder Trophy, recording a sizzling 57 points (24 goals, 33 assists) in 80 appearances for the Kraken during his rookie season. His contribution was instrumental in helping the Kraken secure a playoff spot for the first time in their franchise history, adding firepower to a deep roster in Seattle.
The 20-year-old has built on a successful collegiate career with the University of Michigan, where he was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, by applying his skillset at the professional level.
Beniers, a former second-overall pick, plays with level of dynamism that makes him difficult to track and even trickier to stop. He never cheats for offence and approaches the defensive side of the game with serious dedication.
“You’re seeing a young player that has a lot of ability that’s going to grow into a leader and a great player, I believe, in this league,” said Seattle head coach Dave Hakstol in December.
Beniers has cemented his place as a rising star in the league and a key player for the Kraken. His contributions undoubtedly played a significant role in the team’s success, making him a deserved frontrunner for the Calder Trophy.
Owen Power delivers high quality season for Buffalo Sabres
Power, drafted first overall by the Sabres in 2021, is exactly the player scouts thought he would become. While the 6-foot-6 defenceman is tidy in possession and boasts a powerful shot, his most valuable asset is his defensive smarts. He will boss the blueline for many years to come.
The Canadian posted 35 points (four goals, 31 assists) in 79 appearances as a rookie in Buffalo, carrying the Sabres to within touching distance of a playoff spot.
2023 Calder Trophy: Owen Power, Buffalo Sabres (Image: NHL)
Power built a solid relationship with fellow behemoth defender Ilya Lybushkin, with his strong play at even-strength earning him opportunities to strut his stuff on the powerplay.
In short, the University of Michigan alumni is well-placed to enjoy long-term success in the major leagues. Whether he wins the Calder Trophy or not, the 20-year-old is the real deal.
Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner has outside shot at 2023 Calder Trophy
Skinner, a former third-round selection by his hometown Oilers, took a path rarely trodden to make it to the NHL.
2023 Calder Trophy: Stuart Skinner, Edmonton Oilers (Image: NHL)
The 24-year-old played out his junior eligibility in the Western Hockey League, before climbing through the ECHL and American Hockey League to make it back to Edmonton. From there, he wrestled control of the crease away from Jack Campbell and posted a steamy .914 save percentage through 50 appearances as a rookie.
“It is fun to see him grow and perform in the NHL as they are right now,” said Sylvain Rodrigue, goalie coach of the Bakersfield Condors. “I told [Oilers coaches] Jay Woodcroft and Dave Manson — and it was not only me — our staff said that Stu was a project, but oh my God, he’s big and he has the ability. He just has to put everything together.”
He sure has.
Skinner was rewarded for his fine form with a three-year extension worth $7.8 million and a spot on the Calder Trophy shortlist.
Who is your pick for the 2023 Calder Memorial Trophy? Join the conversation in the comments.
