Rookie Race

Year in and year out, the ability of rookies to barge into the NHL and make a serious impact never ceases to amaze me. This current season is no exception. In both conferences there are number of individuals, on offense and defense, that are setting the foundation for a lengthy, successful career. The battle for this season's Calder Memorial Trophy will be exciting to watch. 

Here's a shot of what the rookie race looks like right now:

Currently, the first overall draft pick in 2011, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, leads the charge in point production - a significant consideration among forwards for the Calder Memorial Trophy. Because of his size, it was uncertain whether or not RNH would even stay in the big leagues. The decision to keep him with the Oilers has obviously turned out to be a good great one. He goes to the dirty areas on the ice, making the size argument completely moot. His vision and playmaking skills make him the most dangerous rookie thus far. Almost half of his points are on the power play, which is significant because last season the Oilers' power play finished 27th. It's currently ranked 6th. A difference maker? Yeah, I'd say so!

How about Adam Henrique? This guy came out of nowhere. After going scoreless in his first four games, Henrique has recorded at least one point in 18 of his last 25 games. He's been on a torrid pace and was recently promoted to Zach Parise's line. Playing with one of the games most talented forwards will provide him with every opportunity to succeed. If the Oilers continue their recent struggles, expect Henrique to surpass RNH very soon. 

I'm not sure why Craig Smith's name is highlighted, but he has definitely made a significant impact on Nashville's roster. His shoulders should be fairly sore from carrying such a large burden for a team that struggles to score. Aside from his empty net mishap, Smith has been a reliable forward on both ends of the ice. Get ready to see Smith in the NHL for a long while.

Other rookie notes:

Luke Adam has been one of the most consistent forwards in Buffalo. The team has struggled under the pressures of an optimistic off-season, but at least they have a productive center going forward.

Matt Read has benefited from his surroundings in Philadelphia, but is still bringing his best every night. A small injury kept him out of a few games, however he returned at an insane pace. He's slowed down since, but is still capable of earning a Calder nomination.

Nick Johnson was claimed off waivers from Pittsburgh by Minnesota in September. He has 13 points and only one of those was on the power play. Not bad.

Adam Larsson has been tossed into the fire, playing against some of the league's most dangerous offensive forwards. With this, his negative-nine doesn't look as bad. His offensive talent and shut-down abilities are going to make him a serious game-changer in a few years.