Prospect tournaments across the league are starting today, and with it we get a good—and sometimes first—look at some of the potential impact rookies in the NHL this year. Even those who spent some time with their NHL club last year normally participate, and do battle against the top prospects of other teams.
Earlier this summer we looked at a handful of rookies that could make an impact on their teams right away. In part one, we reviewed some of the names that had already made their debuts to great fanfare, but had not exhausted their rookie status. In part two, we included some of the less heralded names who have immense upside and could experience a breakout.
Now, we’ll ask you what you think. Below we’ve included many of the names who are early favorites for the Calder Trophy, but feel free to list your own pick for Rookie of the Year in the comments below. Will it be a top draft pick who explodes onto the scene right away, or a ex-college player who is thrust into a better situation? Can a defenseman take home the trophy for the first time since Aaron Ekblad, or will it go to a forward for the tenth time in thirteen years?
[Mobile users click here to vote!]
Son of Sami, Kasperi Kapanen.