Calgary Flames Rookie A Shot At Calder Trophy?
The recent hot streak of Sam Bennett for the Calgary Flames has raised the question of whether he’s a chance at the Calder Trophy this year.
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There is still plenty of stiff competition with the likes of Artemi Panarin of the Chicago Blackhawks, Dylan Larkin of the Detroit Red Wings and Max Domi of the Arizona Coyotes all higher in the scoring table than the Calgary Flames 2014 fourth overall pick.
However, in recent games Sam Bennett has been playing catch-up in a big way; notching eight goals in five games. If he can continue at that high rate of scoring for the Calgary Flames, who knows what will happen come decision-making time on the Calder Trophy.
Sam found himself in elite company just recently, named the NHL Second Star of the Week, sandwiching him between superstars; first star Patrick Kane and third star Anze Kopitar; not a bad spot for the Calgary Flames freshman!
Related Story: Calgary Flames Rookie Named NHL Second Star Of The Week
Kristen Odland of the Calgary Sun was one of the first in a recent article, to suggest that Bennett is now placing himself in contention. She points out the fact he is playing catch-up, but anything is possible over the course of an NHL season; especially one in which the Calgary Flames form has been so up and down.
It seems unlikely given the greater experience of Panarin that his production will slow down for Chicago, whilst Larkin and Domi are equally as fresh to the National Hockey League as Bennett and thus are equally unpredictable in projecting final numbers.
Likewise, last year’s second overall pick, Jack Eichel is still not out of the race and should Connor McDavid come storming back from injury soon, you can’t 100% rule out the Edmonton Oilers star as a wildcard.
The Calgary Flames have it all to play for, likewise does Sam Bennett – you only get one shot at the Calder Trophy after all!
Should he manage to pull it off, it’ll certainly be a great accomplishment for a player some saw as a risk for the Calgary Flames after his questionable showing at the NHL Combine in 2014.
Next: Flames Should Pass On Matthews If They Draft First
Would you put a bet on Sam Bennett being in contention for the Calder Trophy or will his January form fall away sooner rather than later? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.