Hey hockey fans, gather ’round! It’s another amazing season of the NHL, and with scoring levels skyrocketing, you know we’re in for a treat. We’ve got veterans breaking records and newcomers stepping up their game, making the race for the Art Ross Trophy this 2023-24 season an absolute thrill ride. So let’s deep dive into the top candidates who have the best shot at this coveted title, shall we?
Records Are Made to Be Broken, Right?
We’ve got to kick things off with the man himself Connor McDavid. This guy is like the Michael Jordan of hockey right now. Five Art Ross Trophies in seven seasons? Are you kidding me? Last season, he broke the glass ceiling with a mind-boggling 153 points, making it the best individual season since the Mario Lemieux era.
What’s Next for McDavid?
Here’s the thing: McDavid is not just a one-man army. The Oilers’ power play is deadly, and they’ve got all the key players coming back. So, unless an asteroid hits Earth, McDavid is going for another monster season.
Key Stats
- Last Season Points: 153
- Art Ross Titles: 5
- Team: Edmonton Oilers
The Unstoppable Partner: Leon Draisaitl
Now, McDavid’s got his Robin, or should we say his Scottie Pippen Leon Draisaitl. Leon might not get the same limelight as McDavid, but boy, he’s also a scoring machine. Don’t forget, he grabbed the Art Ross Trophy back in the 2019-20 season.
Here’s a spicy take for you: Draisaitl might just outdo McDavid this season. Yeah, I said it. They’re the modern Gretzky and Messier, but even Gretzky got outscored occasionally.
Key Stats
- Last Season Points: 142
- Art Ross Titles: 1
- Team: Edmonton Oilers
The Resilient: Nathan MacKinnon
We’re stepping away from the Oilers for a moment and flying over to Colorado. Say hello to Nathan MacKinnon! Last year, MacKinnon managed 111 points despite missing several games. That’s some insane productivity!
Look, if MacKinnon can shake off the injury bug and put in a full 82-game season, he’s going to be right up there fighting for the Art Ross Trophy. No doubt about it.
Key Stats
- Last Season Points: 111
- Art Ross Titles: 0
- Team: Colorado Avalanche
The Comeback Kid: Auston Matthews
Onto Toronto, the heart of hockey country. Auston Matthews had an “off” season last year with 85 points, but keep in mind, this is after a 106-point season in 2021-22.
He’s coming off some injuries and a recent contract extension. This kid is hungry and he’s got something to prove, so expect him to be right up there in the race.
Key Stats
- Last Season Points: 85
- Art Ross Titles: 0
- Team: Toronto Maple Leafs
The Future Star: Jack Hughes
Last but definitely not least, let’s head to New Jersey where 22-year-old Jack Hughes is stealing the spotlight. The guy chalked up 99 points last season and has shown that he can be a major player in this league.
Hughes is still maturing as a player and if he builds on last season’s performance, he could skyrocket to the top of the list.
Key Stats
- Last Season Points: 99
- Art Ross Titles: 0
- Team: New Jersey Devils
Final Thoughts and Predictions
So, who’s your money on? McDavid is the obvious choice, but Draisaitl is nipping at his heels. Then you’ve got MacKinnon and Matthews who could completely shake things up. And don’t sleep on Jack Hughes the kid’s got talent and he’s not afraid to show it.
One thing’s for sure: the race for the Art Ross Trophy is going to be one for the history books. Buckle up, it’s gonna be a wild ride!
