Ranking Calder Trophy winners since 2005 is a challenging task, as each player's career unfolds differently. Some winners become perennial All-Stars and even Hall of Famers, while others have shorter careers or don't quite reach their full potential. With the benefit of hindsight, we can re-evaluate these winners based on their impact on the league, their overall careers, and the strength of their rookie seasons.
At the top tier, a few names immediately stand out. Alexander Ovechkin (2006) set the standard for explosive rookie seasons, and his subsequent career has cemented him as one of the greatest goal-scorers in NHL history. Evgeni Malkin (2007) followed Ovechkin's lead, becoming a dominant force for the Penguins and a multiple Stanley Cup champion. Patrick Kane (2008) is another elite player, with a remarkable career full of highlight-reel plays and multiple championships with the Blackhawks. Cale Makar (2020) has already established himself as one of the league’s premier defensemen, winning a Norris Trophy and a Stanley Cup early in his career. These players not only had outstanding rookie seasons but also continued to excel, becoming cornerstones of their respective franchises.
The next tier includes players who have had very successful careers, even if they haven't reached the heights of the aforementioned superstars. Nathan MacKinnon (2014) has developed into a Hart Trophy contender and led the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup. Elias Pettersson (2019) has become a dynamic offensive force for the Canucks. Artemi Panarin (2016) had an unconventional but impressive rookie season and has continued to be a consistent point producer. These players have proven to be valuable assets to their teams, contributing significantly to their success.
Then there are the Calder winners who have had solid, but perhaps not spectacular, careers. Gabriel Landeskog (2012) was a strong leader for the Avalanche before his injury issues. Jonathan Huberdeau (2013) had a long run with the Panthers. Jeff Skinner (2011) has been a consistent goal scorer throughout his career. These players have carved out important roles for themselves, demonstrating skill and longevity in the league.
Some Calder winners have faced challenges in living up to the initial expectations set by their rookie seasons. Aaron Ekblad (2015) has had a good career, but injuries have impacted his trajectory. Tyler Myers (2010) has been a dependable defenseman, but hasn't become a star. These players have had varying degrees of success, but their careers haven't quite reached the level some might have anticipated.
In recent years, Moritz Seider (2022) has emerged as a top defenseman for the Red Wings, and Matty Beniers (2023) is a promising young player for the Kraken. Connor Bedard (2024) had an outstanding, albeit injury-shortened, rookie season, raising high expectations for his future. Lane Hutson (2025) just won the Calder trophy and is looking to make a mark in the league. It remains to be seen how their careers will unfold, but they have shown great potential early on.
Ultimately, ranking Calder Trophy winners is a subjective exercise. It's a blend of evaluating their rookie performances and assessing their careers in totality. While some winners have become legends of the game, all have demonstrated exceptional talent and promise in their first NHL seasons.
