NHL Awards Watch: Nathan MacKinnon Leads MVP Race

The NHL Awards Watch reveals Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche leading the Hart Trophy race for MVP, as indicated by a recent poll of the Professional Hockey Writers Association. MacKinnon has tallied 22 goals and 46 points through 26 games, contributing to the Avalanche's impressive 19-1-6 record and a .846 points percentage.

His stellar performance has earned him 82% of the first-place votes, far ahead of other contenders like Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks and Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks. Cale Makar, also of the Avalanche, remains the frontrunner for the Norris Trophy, while Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders leads the Calder Trophy race.

The Vezina Trophy race is currently topped by Scott Wedgewood of the Avalanche, who has a record of 13-1-3 and a .920 save percentage. The report highlights the competitive landscape for the NHL awards, with significant early-season performances from established stars and rising talents alike.