The NHL unveiled the three finalists for the Calder Trophy during Tuesday's draft lottery, and this year's rookie class is absolutely stacked. The award, given to the league's top first-year player, features a defenseman, a sniper, and a dynamic playmaker—each bringing something unique to the ice. Last season, Montreal's Lane Hutson took home the trophy, so we could see back-to-back wins for either a blueliner or a Canadiens star. Here's how the trio stacks up.

3. Beckett Sennecke, Anaheim Ducks (RW)

Don't let the third-place ranking fool you—Sennecke has been a revelation for the Ducks. In 82 games, the 20-year-old right winger lit the lamp 23 times and added 60 points, tying for the most goals among rookies and ranking second in points. What's truly impressive? A whopping 21 of those goals came at even strength, with just one on the power play and another shorthanded. That's pure, gritty offense. Sennecke's rookie campaign now sits second in franchise history for points by a first-year player, trailing only Trevor Zegras (61 points in 2021-22). He's quickly becoming a cornerstone of Anaheim's young core alongside Jackson LaCombe, Leo Carlsson, and Cutter Gauthier.

2. Ivan Demidov, Montreal Canadiens (RW)

Demidov has cemented himself as a budding superstar in Montreal, and his first full NHL season was nothing short of electric. The right winger tallied 19 goals and 62 points in 82 games, showcasing elite vision and creativity that had Habs fans buzzing. While he didn't lead the rookie scoring race, his impact on the Canadiens' offense was undeniable. Demidov's ability to create chances out of thin air makes him a constant threat, and he's already a key piece of Montreal's rebuild. If the Canadiens claim back-to-back Calder wins, Demidov would be a worthy successor to Hutson.

1. Matthew Schaefer, New York Islanders (D)

There's no doubt about the top spot. Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer has been a game-changer on Long Island. While his raw numbers might not jump off the page like the forwards above, his all-around play has been phenomenal. Schaefer anchors the blue line with poise beyond his years, logging heavy minutes against top competition and contributing at both ends of the ice. In a season where the Islanders needed stability, Schaefer delivered. He's the clear favorite to take home the Calder, and for good reason—this kid is the real deal.

Whether you're rooting for a defenseman's dominance, a sniper's flair, or a playmaker's magic, this year's rookie race has it all. Who gets your vote?