Hockey fans were treated to an incredible season that featured a number of unbelievable rookies who came in and made their mark.
Everyone knows about Auston Matthews, Patrik Laine, William Nylander, and Mitch Marner, but players like Sebastian Aho, Matthew Tkachuk, Zach Werenski, Brayden Point, Matt Murray, and Jake Guentzel all had outstanding rookie campaigns that exceeded expectations.
When it comes to the Calder race, though it's essentially down to two horse, Matthews and Laine.
Many expect Matthews to win thanks to a record breaking season in which he scored 40 goals and recorded 69 points. He also didn't have as much talent around him as Laine which makes what he accomplished that much more impressive.
Still, Laine's season was spectacular, and here's some 'cherry picked' ammo for Calder arguments.
There's really nothing wrong with hand-picking stats as everyone does it when arguing on behalf of someone for any award handed out in sports.
That said, stats don't tell the whole story and Leafs fans will be the first people to tell you that as far as this debate is concerned, and Matthews finished ahead of Laine in points, goals and assists.
The debate will only intensify leading up to the announcement of the award, and we can't wait to see what the reaction is like when the winner is announced.
(H/T: Pekka Jalonen)
