Nothing gets NHL fans going like a good debate on awards, and this year is no different.

The battle for the NHL's version of the MVP award looks fierce. Auston Matthews has been touted as a favorite to win his first Hart Trophy, and his 60-goal campaign is his strongest argument. But there are cases to be made for Connor McDavid, Jonathan Huberdeau and Igor Shesterkin.

What about the Norris? Roman Josi has put up an eye-popping 93 points for a defenseman, but Cale Makar has had an equally impressive season in Colorado. Makar leads all blueliners with 27 goals and has been a driving force for the Avs' big campaign.

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It’s not just the goal scoring. The other reason Auston Matthews is the MVP frontrunner

Our B/R NHL writers got together for one final regular-season roundtable to give us their predictions for the winners of the Hart, Norris, Vezina and Calder Trophies. Read on to see whether you agree with their takes, and sound off in the comments if you disagree.

 

Hart Trophy: Auston Matthews

If anyone suggests there's been a harder Hart Trophy vote lately, don't believe them.

Considering the field of contenders for the NHL's most valuable player award includes the league's most talented superstar, its most prolific goal-scorer and the playmaking lynchpin of a team that's been among the best and most consistent all season—not to mention some dark-horse support for an emergent young goalie—there's bound to be several camps disappointed in the final result.

But there's a job to be done. And the B/R hockey staff doesn't shy from a challenge.

After crunching the numbers, considering the contexts and weighing the intangibles, we're making the call that Toronto Maple Leafs sniper Auston Matthews is the most deserving Hart Trophy recipient for 2021-22.

Need evidence? There's plenty.

The 24-year-old has smashed both personal and team records with 60 goals in 73 games, leads the league's second-most prolific offense with 106 points and has provided precisely the sort of day-in, day-out superstar presence needed to restore confidence after a particularly ugly playoff exit last spring.

Without Matthews, the Leafs are a good team.

With him, they're a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.