As each day passes, it seems less likely that we’ll see another Toronto Maple Leafs game played this year.
If the season were to end, not only would it be unfortunate for Toronto Maple Leafs fans, but it would be too bad for the players that had legitimate chances at winning NHL Awards this year.
Although it’s not fair, the NHL Awards typically come down to the last 10 games of the regular season.
If it’s a tight race, based on recency bias, the player who finishes stronger will usually win the award. Although every game is equal in an 82-game season, those last games end up getting valued as more important.
Also, a lot of awards get weighted heavily if that individuals team makes the playoffs.
However, in a world where nobody makes the playoffs and there would still be enough games left that those teams outside the top-eight could actually get into the big dance, it would be interesting to see how people vote.
In regards to the NHL awards and your beloved Toronto Maple Leafs, there were as many as three awards that an individual had a strong chance at winning this year if the season continued. The stoppage really hurts two of these people, yet one would still win regardless.
Auston Matthews had a chance at winning the Maurice Richard Trophy for most goals, but won’t get that opportunity if the season ends today. It’s possible Matthews could also get a Hart Trophy nomination.
The other individual who will be denied is Sheldon Keefe who had a chance at winning the Jack Adams award for best coach, but needed those last 12 games to prove his worth and provide a larger sample-size.
Meanwhile, William Nylander should still win the 2020 NHL Comeback Player of the Year after going from 27 points in 2018-19 to 59 points, including 31 goals this season.
Although there are 15 total awards, let’s look at the top seven starting with the Lady Byng and Selke award: