NHL Experts Predict 2025 Hart Memorial Trophy Winner

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Spencer Garrett Ostrow | Last updated Mar 18, 2025 6:12 PM ET

The NHL regular season is dwindling down, with every team facing between 13 and 16 games remaining before the start of the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Several players have put together MVP-caliber seasons to this point, making a strong case for the Hart Memorial Trophy. But in the end, only one can take home the award.

On Tuesday, five NHL experts from ESPN predicted who will be this season's Hart winner.

Ryan S. Clark went with Winnipeg Jets' goalie Connor Hellebuyck, analyst Victoria Matiash named Edmonton Oilers center Leon Draisaitl, broadcaster Arda Öcal also picked Draisaitl, reporter Kristen Shilton predicted Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon, and reporter Greg Wyshynski offered a second vote for Hellebuyck.

These three players lead the NHL in at least one key statistical category. Hellebuyck has been the league’s top goaltender, leading in wins, save percentage, goals-against average, goals saved above expected and shutouts. Draisaitl is the NHL’s leading goal-scorer, while MacKinnon sits at the top in points.

On ESPN Bet, Draisaitl is listed as the favorite at -250, followed by Hellebuyck (+160) and MacKinnon (+900).

The winner of the Hart Memorial Trophy will be announced at the 2025 NHL Awards following the Stanley Cup Final. A date has yet to be determined.

Both Draisaitl and MacKinnon are looking for their second Hart, while Hellebuyck has yet to win one.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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