The NHL Hart Trophy race has taken an unexpected turn as goaltender Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets emerges as the frontrunner for the league's MVP award. Following Minnesota Wild's Kirill Kaprizov's unfortunate injury, Hellebuyck, last season's Vezina Trophy winner, has made a strong case, leading all goalies in save percentage and goals-against average.

Alongside Hellebuyck, two defensemen—Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks and Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche—are also in the MVP conversation, marking a potential shift in a category typically dominated by forwards. Both Hughes and Makar have impressive statistics this season, solidifying their positions as top contenders for the Norris Trophy as well.

The competition is fierce, with Leon Draisaitl and Nathan MacKinnon also in the mix for the Hart Trophy, showcasing the depth of talent in the league. As the season progresses, the final outcomes for these prestigious awards remain uncertain, but the narratives surrounding each player's impact on their respective teams are certainly compelling.