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The NHL has released their finalists for this year's Calder Trophy, given to the top rookie in the league. The Colorado Avalanche have a candidate in the final three nominees, and forward Gabriel Landeskog has an excellent chance of winning the trophy.
#NHL names #NJDevils Henrique, #Avs Landeskog and #Oilers Nugent-Hopkins finalists for the Calder Trophy. bit.ly/HNHbFO #NHLAwards
— NHL (@NHL) April 20, 2012
Landeskog, the 2nd overall selection in last year's NHL Draft, had an outstanding rookie season. He led the Colorado Avalanche this season with 22 goals, finishing second amongst rookies behind Philadelphia's Matt Read. His 52 total points and 270 shots also led all rookies.
He is joined by fellow 2011 Draft selection Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. The Oilers center was selected first overall last summer and was a dynamic offensive force this past season -- when healthy. Nugent-Hopkins missed 20 games with a variety of injuries.
Devils center Adam Henrique will also receive substantial press for his solid play with the New Jersey Devils this past season. The talented forward was a factor on the ice and gave players like Zach Parise and Ilya Kovalchuk a dynamic linemate on their way to a playoff berth.
Landeskog was a major factor in the Avalanche's surprise season. Instead of a late-season collapse towards a high lottery pick, Colorado was actually in the playoff chase until the last weekend of the regular season. His memorable performances during that second half surge has already earned him support from members of the national press.
The NHL Awards will take place in Las Vegas on June 20.
For more coverage, visit our Avalanche blog Mile High Hockey.