The Calder Trophy race along with the 2021-22 NHL season is in it’s home stretch. At the start of this season I don’t know if anyone would’ve thought the Red Wings young core of Raymond, Seider and Nedeljkovic would’ve brought this much success and showed such a promising future. However it’s been damn exciting to watch. Personally, I would be happy with any Detroit player winning such an award. It shows we are in good hands looking into the future. Although having two players in that race let alone at the top of it is actually unheard of.

Who is the Favorite for the Calder Trophy

As far as the race goes, my non bias pick to run away with the Calder it would be Moritz Seider. It’s remarkable for him to be playing at this level defensively. However, he immediately stepped into the top defensemen role. Facing the best of the best night in and night out on the top line. He is an absolute menace. His presence defensively and on the power play with his ability to break out the puck and make chances for this team is unmatched. But some NHL fans may argue Anaheim’s Zegras or Toronto’s Michael Bunting even Mo’s teammate and rookie point leader Lucas Raymond. But when you look at the bigger picture Seider is playing with nowhere near the talent that other rookies are surrounded by.

 

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Mo Seider and the Calder Trophy

Arguably Mo’ is a Top 15 defensemen in the NHL in his first year. Is there any other Calder nominee considered to be even top 20 in their respective position? I believe the hockey that Seider is playing compared to Zegras or Bunting is more meaningful. His presence on the ice is more valuable and it may be undermined. Although he has made some flashy plays the defensemen position often doesn’t get the hype or credit they deserve.  Those plays they make on a nightly basis, that don’t show up on the scoresheet or a highlight reel.