Bunting, Zegras, Seider Named Calder Trophy Finalists

On Wednesday morning, the NHL announced that the three finalists for the Calder Trophy are: forward Michael Bunting of the Toronto Maple Leafs, forward Trevor Zegras of the Anaheim Ducks, and defenseman Moritz Seider of the Detroit Red Wings.

Michael Bunting (@MapleLeafs), Moritz Seider (@DetroitRedWings) and Trevor Zegras (@AnaheimDucks) are the three finalists for the 2021‑22 Calder Memorial Trophy. https://t.co/8wJDlyEP6a #NHLAwards pic.twitter.com/gPozfm6tQ5
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) May 11, 2022

The 26-year old Bunting led all rookies in scoring this season, scoring 23 goals and 63 points in 79 games for the Leafs alongside superstars Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. While he is five years older than the two other finalists who are both 21 years old, the fact that he led in points for rookie scorers and made an impact on his team can't go unnoticed despite having played more pro hockey. In fact, Bunting just makes the cut to qualify for the Calder Trophy as the maximum age to win is 26 years old.

As for Zegras, he was probably the flashiest rookie this season, having scored the Michigan on multiple occasions. He brings a new excitement to the game that many younger fans will appreciate over the next few years. In terms of production, Zegras finished second behind Bunting with 23 goals and 61 points in 75 games. It is possible had he played more games, he would also passed Bunting as he had a better points per game pace.

Bunting and Zegras also finished tied with Montreal Canadiens' Cole Caufield and Red Wings' Lucas Raymond for second most goals by a rookie behind Nashvile Predators' Tanner Jeannot.

The third candidate Moritz Seider, may have been the most consistent rookie throughout the whole NHL season. He may not have had as many points as the other two finalists, but as a defenseman his two-way game shined all season. As the season moved along, the German defenseman continued to gain more responsibility on the back end. His point totals were pretty decent as well, as Seider put up seven goals and 50 points in 82 games. This placed him fourth in points among rookie skaters. The ayer who came in third was his teammate Lucas Raymond who scored 57 points. As a defenseman, the point totals won't tell the whole story for Seider as his overall game may be the reason he could be winning the Calder Trophy.

Each finalist has a case for why they should win the Calder Trophy but it will only be announced in late June who is the winner. It will be interesting to see if Seider or Zegras will win. Or whether the points by Bunting end up being the deciding factor.