The Calder Trophy race this season is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in recent history, with three standout rookies vying for attention: Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks, Lane Hutson of the Montreal Canadiens, and Dustin Wolf of the Calgary Flames. Celebrini, the top pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, has emerged as the Sharks' best player, showcasing exceptional skills with 57 points in 65 games. His Young Guns cards are trending in the hobby market, with high values reflecting his impressive performance.

Meanwhile, Hutson has been a revelation as a rookie defenseman, notching 64 points and keeping the Canadiens in playoff contention. His card values have surged, indicating the excitement surrounding his potential. On the other hand, Wolf has quietly made a name for himself as the Flames' goaltender, earning a place in the Calder discussions with excellent performances despite the team's offensive struggles. As the season continues, all eyes are on Hutson, who currently leads the race for rookie of the year.

Macklin Celebrini, the first overall pick by the San Jose Sharks in the 2023 NHL Draft, is embarking on his rookie season while adapting to life as an NHL player. He has chosen to live with Sharks legend Joe Thornton, a decision that has provided him with guidance and positivity. Celebrini's adjustment mirrors that of other young stars like Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby, who benefited from veteran mentorship. As he acclimates to the professional level, Celebrini's living arrangement speaks to a wider trend where rookies often seek support from established players.

John Tavares is also making headlines, leading the NHL with 14 goals in recent games, showcasing his prowess as he approaches free agency. Meanwhile, the playoff race intensifies in the Eastern Conference, with teams like the Montreal Canadiens fighting for a wild-card spot against the Columbus Blue Jackets and New York Rangers.

Rookie Macklin Celebrini, the first overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, is making a big splash with the San Jose Sharks, living with franchise legend Joe Thornton. Celebrini, who relocated to the area with his family in 2018 due to his father's job with the Golden State Warriors, is getting a unique perspective on his thrilling debut season. Thornton’s positive energy is a crucial support for Celebrini, who is navigating the pressures of the NHL as a teenager.

As many young players settle into their rookie seasons, they often seek mentorship from seasoned veterans. Celebrini’s situation echoes the paths of stars like Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby, who thrived through similar experiences. Celebrini's living arrangement is not just practical; it provides essential guidance as he balances the intense competition on the ice with his personal life.

Lane Hutson has emerged as a standout defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens and is currently generating buzz in the Calder Trophy race for the NHL's top rookie. His performance has placed him alongside notable talents such as Macklin Celebrini and Matvei Michkov. Hutson's future with the Canadiens is a hot topic, especially as he approaches the final year of his entry-level contract, which has an AAV of $950,000. The team is expected to negotiate a long-term extension for him, similar to contracts signed by young stars like Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki.

Hutson is eligible to sign an extension starting July 1st. Comparisons to players like Quinn Hughes and Brock Faber suggest he could command a significant salary, potentially landing somewhere in the $7 to $9 million range, with insights indicating he might settle around $8 million annually. The Canadiens are in a strong position with their young core, and Hutson's impressive performances could lead to a lucrative deal that reflects his contributions.