NHL Announces 2021-22 Hart Trophy Finalists

The NHL has announced the three finalists for the 2021-22 Hart Trophy - Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid, Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews and New York Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin.

From gathering information from around the hockey world, it appears Matthews is the favorite for the award. He became the first player since Steven Stamkos in 2011-12 to score 60 goals in a single season and it's even crazier to think as he missed nine games this season. Not only has his offensive game taken strides, so has Matthews' 200-foot game as he's becoming someone who will receive Selke votes as the league's best defensive forward.

Hart Nominees are out, let's take a look at the finalists.

Auston Matthews hit a new high in goal scoring, in part because he creates chances for himself from everywhere. He also rounded out his game considerably this year, especially on defence. #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/hbJ0fIpDfF
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) May 12, 2022

McDavid on the other hand is looking to claim his third career Hart Trophy. The 25-year-old had another monster season with 123 points in 80 games, and is looking to become the first player to earn two consecutive Hart Trophies since Alex Ovechkin back in 2007-2009.

Meanwhile Shesterkin, who will win the Vezina trophy as the league's best goaltender was a huge part of the Rangers success this season. He led the NHL in save % at .935 and goals against average at 2.07 per game.

The award is determined by the Professional Hockey Writers Association and there's also some honorary members of the broadcasting community who will be getting involved in the voting process. Good luck to all the nominees.

For what we believe to be the first time in the 98-year history of the Hart Trophy, a former Hart winner voted to help determine the award this year.

Excited to share: 9-time winner @WayneGretzky was part of panel of broadcasters invited to vote for 2022 #NHLAwards by @ThePHWA. pic.twitter.com/wGeFczDRC6
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) May 12, 2022