Leon Draisaitl, Connor Hellebuyck, and Nikita Kucherov have been nominated for the prestigious Hart Trophy, awarded to the NHL's most valuable player. Draisaitl, who topped the league with 52 goals and recorded 106 points, continues to make a strong case for his second Hart win after previously securing it in 2020. Meanwhile, Hellebuyck had an outstanding season as the backbone of the Winnipeg Jets, recording 47 wins and leading the league in goals-against average (GAA) and save percentage, propelling his team to a Presidents’ Trophy victory. Kucherov, who amassed 121 points, also adds to his accolades with an impressive third Art Ross Trophy.

Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers, Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets, and Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning have been selected as finalists for the prestigious 2024-25 Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded for being the NHL's most valuable player. Draisaitl, a previous winner and two-time finalist, led the league with 52 goals and recorded an impressive 106 points, showcasing his elite offensive talent. Hellebuyck, a first-time Hart finalist, excelled as a goaltender, leading with 47 wins and a stellar 2.00 goals-against average. Kucherov, a previous Hart Trophy winner, dominated scoring for the second straight season, amassing 121 points. All three players have made significant impacts on their respective teams, making this year's race particularly competitive.

Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers, Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets, and Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning have been nominated for the prestigious Hart Trophy, awarded to the NHL's Most Valuable Player. Draisaitl, who led the league with 52 goals and 106 points, secured the Rocket Richard Trophy and previously won the Hart in 2020. Hellebuyck, a Vezina Trophy finalist, boasts a standout season with 47 wins and a 2.00 GAA, guiding the Jets to their first Presidents' Trophy. Kucherov, a former Hart winner, leads with 121 points, helping the Lightning reach the playoffs for eight consecutive years.

The Florida Panthers have demonstrated dominance, securing a 4-1 series win against the Tampa Bay Lightning with a decisive 6-3 victory in Game 5. The win showcased the Panthers' depth and resilience, with standout performances from players like Matthew Tkachuk and goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. Despite Tampa's attempts to break through, notably with Nikita Kucherov, the Panthers' defense proved impenetrable. The series not only exemplified the Panthers' offensive capabilities but also their ability to match physicality, signaling their readiness for deeper playoff challenges ahead.

With a notable 8-2 playoff record against their rivals, the Panthers look poised for further success. Coach Paul Maurice emphasized the competitive spirit between both teams, suggesting that the Panthers have more to unveil as they prepare for the next round, likely against the Toronto Maple Leafs or Ottawa Senators. The Panthers are not just a formidable force; they are evolving into a cohesive unit that can adapt to various challenges during the playoffs.

Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche is vying for the Ted Lindsay Award, competing against teammate Cale Makar and Tampa Bay Lightning's Nikita Kucherov. MacKinnon, the reigning Hart Trophy winner, finished the season with 116 points, tying Kucherov for the NHL assist lead with 84. Makar, a first-time finalist for the Lindsay Award, had an impressive season as well, leading all defensemen with 30 goals and 92 points.

Kucherov, who claimed the Art Ross Trophy for the second consecutive year after leading the league in scoring with 121 points, round out the competition for this prestigious award, which recognizes the league's most outstanding player as voted by fellow players.