This morning the NHL announced on X the finalists for the Hart Trophy also known as the league's MVP. One notable omission from this list was Auston Matthews leading to major outrage among fans.
Today the NHL continued its rollout of NHL Award nominees. The Hart Trophy got its opportunity and the nominees are Nikita Kucherov, Nathan MacKinnon, and Connor McDavid.
2024 Hart Trophy finalists, as voted by @ThePHWA: Nikita Kucherov (TBL), Nathan MacKinnon (COL) and Connor McDavid (EDM)
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The announcement has caused debate and frustration that Auston Matthews is not one of the finalists being considered. He, of course, had an outstanding year and had a historic goal-scoring number for this era scoring 69 goals during the regular season.
These three all had Hart-worthy campaigns, but it's interesting to see Auston Matthews and his 69 goals + Selke nomination NOT make the finalist list.
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The debate will continue up until the moment the award is officially given out whether or not Auston Matthews should've been a finalist or even won the award. Scoring 69 goals in a season while being one of the best defensive forwards in the league does deserve recognition.
While Auston Matthews' absence from this list can be explained due to the outstanding seasons of other players it still feels odd that he will not be a finalist. With the list of finalists it will be fascinating to see who takes home the trophy.
Who would get your vote for the Hart Trophy?
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