(photo courtesy of Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Chicago Blackhawks rookie sensation, Artemi Panarin, claimed the NHL’s top prize for new-comers by becoming just the 7th Russian to win the Calder Trophy this evening in Las Vegas.
The “Bread-Man” led all rookies in goals, assists(47) and points (77) in his first year in Chicago. While some clamored that his eligibility should be void since he played professionally in the KHL prior to arriving in the Windy City, the voters rightfully recognized the most deserving player.
Panarin’s addition to the Blackhawks line-up benefited line-mate Patrick Kane’s play enough to earn him a Hart Trophy nomination as league MVP. Panarin’s performance has caused Chicago to play a considerable amount of bonus’s which is something they likely won’t mind when getting such a talent at a tremendous discount.
