News and Analysis: Patrik Laine wins NHL rookie of the Month

After recording eight goals and seven assists in 15 games, Patrik Laine has been named the NHL’s rookie of the month. This marks the first time Laine takes home the monthly honours, which isn’t extremely surprising considering the talent that headlines this years rookie class.  

As of now, Laine has scored at a point per game pace through 56 games, placing him first in rookie scoring and putting him tied at 13th amongst the entire league. Laine’s 31 goals however, place him tied among rookies and third in the league overall. 

Never mind the Calder Trophy, Laine has himself a shot at winning this years Maurice “Rocket” Richard trophy. Laine is in a neck in neck race with fellow rookie Auston Matthews for both the Calder and Rocket Richard trophy. 

As of now, Matthews likely would still receive more votes than Laine due to his complete game and the national hype that surrounds him. But it should be noted that if Laine finishes off the year scoring at a point per game pace and reaching the 40 goal plateau, it’ll be hard to not vote him as the leagues best rookie. But mind you; Matthews is on pace to score at the same rate. 

This years rookie class is simply fantastic.