Leon Draisaitl is poised to join an elite group of players as a two-time Hart Trophy winner, following his impressive season where he led the NHL with 52 goals and posted a remarkable 100-point season. With this potential win, he would become the third player in Edmonton Oilers history to achieve multiple Hart accolades, joining legends Wayne Gretzky and Connor McDavid.

Draisaitl's achievements this season include a record six overtime goals and sharing the playoff points lead with Connor McDavid and Adrian Kempe. Despite missing substantial time due to injury, he demonstrated his value with 11 game-winning goals, indicating his clutch ability when it matters most.

The Hart Trophy finalists include Draisaitl, Winnipeg's Connor Hellebuyck, and Tampa Bay's Nikita Kucherov. Each has had a significant impact on their respective teams, but Draisaitl’s contributions stand out, especially in the playoffs where he consistently elevates his game, according to teammates.

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 continue to assert their dominance in the NHL, recently sweeping the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round of the playoffs for the second consecutive year. Under the guidance of head coach Paul Maurice, the Panthers have evolved into a formidable force, turning what once was a disappointing franchise into one that has made the playoffs consistently and won the Stanley Cup in 2024. Coach Jon Cooper acknowledged the Panthers' growth, noting that they have learned how to win after facing the Lightning's playoff prowess in previous years. Florida's recent success includes overcoming a 3-1 series deficit against the Boston Bruins last season, demonstrating their resilience and ability to adapt. With a solid foundation and experience, the Panthers are poised for another impressive playoff run.