Gabriel Landeskog has been named the top rookie in the NHL for the 2011-2012 season, and has become the first member of the Colorado Avalanche to win the Calder Trophy since Chris Drury in 1999.
Landeskog, 19, was a favorite for the trophy after his strong finish to the NHL season after leading the Avalanche to a late season push towards the postseason. The rookie forward was drafted second overall in the 2011 NHL Draft, the highest pick since the franchise moved to Colorado. He did not disappoint, jumping straight to the NHL and proving his polish right away.
The young forward played in all 82 games this season, leading all NHL rookies in hits, shots, plus/minus and tying for the NHL rookie lead in goals and points. Landeskog also tied for the Avalanche team lead in game winning goals and placed third on the team in total points. He also led all rookie forwards in minutes played and average ice time.
For more coverage, visit our Avalanche blog Mile High Hockey. For complete coverage of this year's NHL League Awards check out SB Nation NHL.