Will Nikita Kucherov win his second career Hart Memorial Trophy tomorrow?
As of June 12, 2025, the NHL Awards ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow, June 13, 2025, at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas. Among the most anticipated announcements is the Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded to the league’s most valuable player. Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov is once again a finalist, alongside Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon and Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid. This marks Kucherov’s third nomination for the Hart Trophy, having previously won the award in 2019.
In the 2024–25 season, Kucherov led the NHL with 121 points, comprising 37 goals and 84 assists. This performance earned him his third Art Ross Trophy, making him one of only nine players in NHL history to achieve this feat. His exceptional playmaking ability was further highlighted by his 84 assists, tying him with MacKinnon for the league lead. Kucherov’s contributions were instrumental in the Lightning’s success, propelling them to their eighth consecutive playoff appearance.
However, Kucherov faces strong competition for the Hart Trophy. MacKinnon recorded 140 points (51 goals, 89 assists), leading the Avalanche to their seventh straight playoff berth. McDavid, the reigning Hart Trophy winner, amassed 132 points (32 goals, 100 assists), continuing his dominance in the league. Both players have been pivotal to their respective teams’ successes, making the race for the MVP award highly competitive.
The Professional Hockey Writers’ Association, responsible for voting on the Hart Trophy, considers various factors, including individual performance, team success, and overall impact on the game. While Kucherov’s statistical achievements are impressive, the voters will also weigh the contributions of MacKinnon and McDavid. Given the close nature of the competition, the outcome remains uncertain.
Nikita Kucherov has had an outstanding season and is a deserving finalist, the decision for the 2025 Hart Memorial Trophy winner is still to be determined. The NHL Awards ceremony tomorrow will reveal whether Kucherov secures his second career MVP title.
