From the NHL:
Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid, who led all rookies with 11 assists and 16 points in 15 games, has been named the NHL’s Rookie of the Month for March.
McDavid edged Buffalo Sabres teammates Sam Reinhart (4-8—12 in 15 GP) and Jack Eichel (6-4—10 in 14 GP), Arizona Coyotes left wing Anthony Duclair (3-7—10 in 14 GP), and St. Louis Blues center Robby Fabbri (3-6—9 in 12 GP) for the honor.
McDavid’s run has put him squarely in the conversation for rookie of the year. Most observers consider him the best rookie player, but the fact he missed so much time with an injury is what could hurt his Calder Trophy candidacy.
The three favorites at this point are probably McDavid, Artemi Panarin, and Shayne Gostisbehere.
McDavid’s case: with 45 points in 42 games, he’s the only rookie that’s played at least 40 games and averaged more than a point per game.
Panarin’s case: the leading rookie scorer, by a considerable margin, with 64 points.
Gostisbehere’s case: the leading rookie scorer among defensemen (42 points), plus he’s helped the Flyers into a playoff position.