The Calder Trophy, awarded annually to the NHL’s top rookie, is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory even before the regular season begins. Traditionally dominated by first-overall draft picks, this year’s race features an unusually strong group of newcomers who could challenge expectations. Early preseason performances suggest several standout talents are already making their mark, raising anticipation for a heated debate among voters. With no clear frontrunner yet, fans and analysts will be closely watching how these rookies develop as the season progresses.

The 2027 Calder Trophy race already has quite a few candidates, and the preseason hasn’t even ended yet. Usually this race is full of players drafted at the very top.…