Trophy Predications: Calder Trophy

"The player selected as the most proficient in his first year of competition in the National Hockey League"(1), otherwise known as the rookie of the year is one the NHL's most prolific awards. Have you ever heard of Alexander Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin, or Patrick Kane? Well, they all started their NHL careers with a some hardware in their trophy case. In my eyes the rookie crowned in the summer of 2009 will be just as promising as the three winners before him. Here are the three players that can take home the trophy. Drumroll please...

Kris Versteeg 3rd Place

Chicago's finest Kris Versteeg leads rookies in points and has a modest plus-15. The Blackhawks prodigy knows how to put pucks in the net making him difficult for opposing defenses. Kris plays with a lot of confidence making him look like an experienced pro. This breakout season is only the beginning for the long career Versteeg has ahead of him.

Bobby Ryan 2nd Place

Anaheim has been patiently waiting for this young gun to develop. Bobby Ryan was taken 2nd overall in 2005 and has had high expectations set before since the beginning. Ryan has racked up 45 points in just 53 games! He makes great plays, which very few players on the Ducks can do. Bobby Ryan is an important player to the franchise and could be a key asset in the playoffs.

Steve Mason Calder Winner

Last but not least is Steve Mason. Mason stepped in and sent Pascal Leclaire packing to Ottawa after his injury. 1st in shutouts and 2nd in GAA are some of the staggering numbers the Ontario, Canada native has put up. Through 50 games Mason has 29 wins and looks like he will lead the Blue Jackets to their first ever playoff performance. This rookie is the real deal and a lock for the Calder Trophy.