Who Should Win the Major NHL Awards in 2009-2010?

Hart Trophy (MVP) – Alexander Ovechkin (Capitals)

I would be stunned to find somebody that could conjure up a legitimate argument against this choice. As of this writing, Ovechkin either leads the league or is placed second in every major statistical category. Not only does he lead the league in points, but the discrepancy between him and the second place player in points per game is a healthy margin. Unfortunately for other top players in the league, Ovechkin’s spike in dirty hits this season doesn’t diminish his steady dominance.

Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (Outstanding Sportsmanship/Gentlemanly Play) – Martin St. Louis (Lightning)

St. Louis’ perennial exemplary performance as of late has been forgone by many spectators of the sport. Arguably the most important player in Lightning history, St. Louis has endured an abundance of bullying due to the fact that he is relatively undersized. Although he has shown that he is not afraid to back down from any competitor, his mature demeanor on the ice demonstrates his ability to restrain from unnecessary retaliation and foolish penalties. St. Louis is one of the great leaders and role models in the game today.

Vezina Trophy (Top Goaltender) – Ilya Bryzgalov (Coyotes)

I understand that Ryan Miller has endeared himself to the American public through his historic Olympic performance. However, the Coyotes have a hero of their own that has turned their franchise from the brink of bankruptcy to a serious contender in the West. The Coyotes are second in the NHL in goals-per-game allowed and their offense has had trouble maintaining a high level of support, ranking a mere 24th in goals-per-game. Bryzgalov leads the league in shutouts and is the primary reason the Coyotes are a surprise contender.

Calder Memorial Trophy (Top Rookie) – Tyler Myers (Sabres)

The 12th overall pick in the 2008 draft has emerged as one of the most reliable defensemen on the Sabres’ staff. He has used his 6’8” frame effectively, leading all rookies in blocked shots. Myers has been entrusted with a veteran’s role by leading all rookies in ice time with 23:42 per game. Moreover, Myers is tied with John Tavares in points with 36.

James Norris Memorial Trophy (Top Defenseman) – Mike Green (Capitals)

After being shunned by voters in 2009, Mike Green is a near lock to win the Norris trophy this year. Green currently leads all defensemen in goals, assists, points, power play goals, and is second in plus-minus. Nothing more needs to be discussed.

Jack Adams Award (Top Coach) – Terry Murray (Kings)

On paper, the Kings roster does not impress at a glance. Terry Murray has done wonders with a group of players that don’t have the star power or large point totals that attract attention. Furthermore, Murray can’t fall back on any one player or goalie as a crutch to carry them through tough stretches. The Kings have been one of the most consistent teams in the league, performing as well on the road as they do at home. Murray should be credited with maintaining a sense of balance on a team that will enter the playoffs as an underdog.

Frank J. Selke Trophy (Forward who excels most in defensive aspects of the game) – Ryan Kesler (Canucks)

Ryan Kesler centers the second line on the Canucks in an unconventional fashion. Most second lines focus only on providing supplemental scoring to the first line, and although Kesler’s line accomplishes this, they contribute significantly on the defensive end. Kesler ranks second among all forwards in takeaways and has blocked 66 shots, good enough for seventh among forwards. The prowess he has displayed behind his own blue line should be commended with the 2010 Selke trophy.