A Race For The Hart

With the push for the NHL playoffs ensuing and the wind-down of the 2019-20 regular season, there are three names that stand out for the NHL’s Most Valuable Player. Leon Draisaitl, Nathan MacKinnon and David Pastrnak will likely be the finalists for this years’ Hart trophy award.

Let’s take a look at each player’s case for coveted Hart Trophy:

 

Hart Trophy Tracker:

 

Leon Draisaitl, Edmonton Oilers

Draisaitl is the current NHL-scoring leader in points with 110. In a 8-3 rout against the Nashville Predators last week, Draisaitl had a five-point night with four goals and one assist.

The complete dominance of Draisaitl has put him ahead in the race for the Hart along with placing his Oilers in position for a hopeful Stanley Cup berth. More than likely he’ll win his first Art Ross trophy (awarded to the overall points leader) as well. The trophy shelf could be weighted differently heading into the summertime for Edmonton’s center.

 

Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche

Absolute sniper Nathan MacKinnon sits just fourth on the NHL-scoring list with 93 points. He currently has 35 goals on the season, which is only seven short of his career-high of last seasons 41. MacKinnon’s passing has elevated the play of his linemates along with placing him tied for top-five in assists in the league with 58.

The Colorado Avalanche are currently second in the Central division with 90 points. If MacKinnon can continue to perform with his great offensive ability, the chances of him taking home the Hart trophy could be bolstered along with the confidence of his Colorado teammates.

 

David Pastrnak, Boston Bruins

Pastrnak, the current NHL-goal scoring leader with 48, looks to add more than just the Hart trophy to his shelve of awards. Wanting to beat out Alex Ovechkin (47) and Auston Matthews (46) for the Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard trophy, Pastrnak’s wrist shot must continue to flourish as it has this entire season.

The Boston Bruins wouldn’t be where they are without his spectacular play, having the team with a league-best 96 points. Pastrnak is currently third in the NHL-scoring lead with 94 points. He’s looking to break the 50-goal plateau and increase his career high in goals for the rest of the season.

 

This race will come down to the last few games of the season. It will be interesting to watch what happens down the stretch of this very tight MVP race.