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In a stunning display of skill and tenacity, Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets has been crowned the NHL’s Hart Trophy winner for the 2024-25 season, marking a significant achievement in the realm of professional hockey. This accolade acknowledges the player “adjudged to be the most valuable to his team,” and Hellebuyck has demonstrated just that, also winning the Vezina Trophy as the league’s top goaltender.

Connor Hellebuyck: The First Goalie Since Carey Price to Win Double Honors

In a rare feat, Connor Hellebuyck becomes the first goalie since Carey Price in 2015 to secure the Hart and Vezina awards in the same season, joining only three other netminders in the expansion era to accomplish this remarkable double. Hellebuyck’s crowning achievements were unveiled during the NHL Awards ceremony prior to Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final.

Throughout the 2024-25 regular season, Hellebuyck showcased a dominating performance, leading the league with an impressive 47 wins and setting the pace for the Jets, ultimately helping the franchise clinch its first Presidents’ Trophy. With a goals-against average of 2.00 and a save percentage of .925, his exceptional contributions on the ice solidified his reputation as an elite goaltender.

A Season of Both Triumph and Challenge

Despite his stellar regular season statistics, which included leading qualified goalies in shutouts with eight, the playoffs proved to be more challenging for the Jets and Hellebuyck. In two rounds, he recorded a 6-7 record with a less favorable .866 SV% and a 3.08 GAA, being pulled from the net on three occasions during the first-round series against the St. Louis Blues

. However, the Jets managed to advance and win that series in seven games before falling to the Dallas Stars in the second round.

Recognition from Peers and Experts

Hellebuyck received a staggering 31 out of 32 first-place votes for the Vezina Trophy from the NHL’s general managers and garnered 81 out of 191 first-place votes for the Hart from members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association. This strong support reflects his exceptional performance throughout the season and his vital role in the Jets’ success.

Following the award announcements, Hellebuyck expressed gratitude for this pivotal moment in his career, stating, “Looking back, I’ll probably picture this day as one of the greatest of my career.” His family celebrated the occasion with him, revealing the trophies during a surprise moment at his home.

Other Notable NHL Award Winners

The awards ceremony also spotlighted the achievements of other talented players in the NHL this season:

Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning took home the Ted Lindsay Award.
Aleksander Barkov of the Florida Panthers was honored with the Selke Trophy.
Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche won the Norris Trophy.
Lane Hutson of the Montreal Canadiens captured the Calder Trophy.
Anze Kopitar of the Los Angeles Kings received the Lady Byng Trophy.
Spencer Carbery of the Washington Capitals won the Jack Adams Award.
Alexander Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals earned the Mark Messier Award for Leadership.

As the 2024-25 NHL season comes to a close, the achievements of Connor Hellebuyck and other standout players remind fans of the thrilling nature of professional hockey. With these honors, Hellebuyck continues to solidify his legacy as one of the league’s premier goalies.

FAQ

What are the Hart and Vezina Trophies?

The Hart Trophy is awarded to the most valuable player in the NHL, while the Vezina Trophy recognizes the top goaltender.

Who was the last goalie to win the Hart Trophy before Hellebuyck?

The last goalie to win the Hart Trophy before Connor Hellebuyck was Carey Price in 2015.

What contributes to a goalie winning the Vezina Trophy?

A goalie’s performance stats, including save percentage, goals-against average, and overall contributions to their team, contribute to winning the Vezina Trophy.

How did the Jets perform in the playoffs this season?

The Jets won their first-round series against the St. Louis Blues but were eliminated by the Dallas Stars in the second round.

Who are some other NHL award winners this season?

Notable NHL award winners this season include Nikita Kucherov, Aleksander Barkov, and Cale Makar.