Draisaitl Dominates Hart Trophy Race as Season Nears Finale

EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — Leon Draisaitl has reclaimed the top spot in the Hart Trophy odds leaderboard following a stellar return from injury on April 2, 2025. With the NHL regular season drawing to a close, Draisaitl’s performance not only marks a comeback but also positions him as a leading candidate for the prestigious award.

In his first game back after a four-game absence, the 29-year-old scored his 50th and 51st goals of the season, leading the Edmonton Oilers as they eye playoff positioning. His odds have significantly shortened from +425 to -130, reflecting a 56.52% implied probability of winning the trophy, according to betting site DraftKings.

Draisaitl’s dominance on the ice has been underscored by his sustained offensive output, often outshining his teammate Connor McDavid for extended periods this season. Despite the Oilers’ struggles over the past two months, Draisaitl’s impressive play has kept him in pole position for what could be his second Hart Trophy.

“I just focus on my game and what I can control,” Draisaitl said after the game. “Every match is important, and I want to lead by example as we head into the playoffs.”

Meanwhile, Connor Hellebuyck, the Winnipeg Jets‘ goaltender, is experiencing a strong season and stands a chance of becoming the first goalie to win the Hart Trophy in a decade. His current odds are +140, with a 41.67% implied probability, highlighting his crucial role in the Jets’ competitive performance.

The race for the Hart Trophy is heating up, with players like Nathan MacKinnon and Nikita Kucherov also remaining in contention. MacKinnon, who won the award last season, is tied for the third-shortest odds at a respectable range, while Kucherov has made a notable comeback in recent weeks.

On the injury front, Logan Thompson’s performance this season has fluctuated, further emphasizing the importance of postseason readiness. The Los Angeles Kings also confront challenges as they vie for home-ice advantage against divisional rivals.

As the playoffs loom, teams are shifting their focus toward building momentum and securing advantageous seedings. In the current landscape, the competition remains fierce, and with each game counting down the final weeks of the regular season, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on those who perform under the pressure.