2014 NHL Awards Preview – Calder Trophy

Mar 10, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) during the third period against the Winnipeg Jets at Pepsi Center. The Avalanche won 3-2 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche

The most hyped first overall pick since John Tavares stepped in as an 18 year old and didn’t disappoint. MacKinnon led all rookies in goals (24), assists (39) and points (63), and also posted a +20 rating which was 3rd among freshmen.  He finished 4th on the Avalanche in scoring and was a big reason the Avs went from 29th overall to 3rd in the span of a year.