Draisaitl, Hellebuyck, Kucherov Named Hart Trophy Finalists

NEW YORK (May 1, 2025) – Edmonton Oilers center Leon Draisaitl, Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, and Tampa Bay Lightning right wing Nikita Kucherov are the three finalists for the 2024-25 Hart Memorial Trophy. This award is given annually to the player considered most valuable to his team, as voted by the Professional Hockey Writers Association.

Draisaitl, 29, led the NHL with 52 goals and finished the season with 106 points after also registering 54 assists. Despite missing 11 games, he helped the Oilers secure a playoff spot and won the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy for leading goal scorer.

“To be part of that conversation with some great players, it’s a great honour,” Draisaitl said. He won the Hart Trophy in 2019-20 and aims for a second title.

Hellebuyck, 31, achieved a league-best 47 wins and posted a stellar 2.00 goals-against average. He also recorded eight shutouts this season, propelling the Jets to their first Presidents' Trophy. His performance makes him the first player in franchise history to be a Hart finalist.

“This is an amazing accomplishment, and it’s well-deserved,” said Jets coach Scott Arneil. “For him to be in the running doesn’t happen often with goalies.”

Kucherov, also 31, topped the NHL with 121 points to claim his third Art Ross Trophy. His contributions were critical in leading Tampa Bay to its eighth consecutive playoff berth.

Kucherov expressed pride in his performance, stating, “This season has been defining, allowing me to contribute significantly to the team’s success.”

The NHL will announce the winner of the Hart Trophy at its annual awards ceremony in June. This year’s finalists have shown exceptional talent, making this a highly competitive race for the prestigious award.