Ethan Miller/Getty ImagesKirill Kaprizov, forward for the Minnesota Wild, was awarded Tuesday's 2020-21 Calder Trophy.The award is presented to the league's best rookie and was won by Alex Nedeljkovic, a Dallas Stars forward, and Jason Robertson, a Carolina Hurricanes goalie.Kaprizov performed admirably in the 2020-21 campaign. He led all rookies in goals (27), power play goals (eight), points (51) as well as shots on goal (157). Kaprizov was also the leader of the Wild in points and goals, which played a major role in qualifying the Wild for the postseason.All this while he was a young player in another country, apart from his Russian family.After the season, the 24-year-old revealed to reporters:"There was nothing difficult throughout the season. Things went well, especially on the ice. There are still things I can improve upon and work on. Being unable to see my family, or have my mom or brother come to visit me during the game, and then sitting at home not getting much exercise, was definitely a challenge.Kaprizov is the first Wild player to win the Calder Trophy.Robertson, 21 years old, finished with 17 goals, 28 assists, which is the highest number of rookies. Robertson was also the top rookie with 39 even-strength goals.Rick Bowness, Stars coach, stated in May that "he's got to the most improved player of the league." There is no comparison between his January performance and now. His competitive nature, intensity, and play with the puck have improved. That's something we will continue to work on together."He said, "I think you're just seeing the tip of an iceberg with Jason." There's huge upside.Nedeljkovic (25), was a rock in goal. He went 15-5-3 for Hurricanes and helped them to a playoff spot. His 1.90 goals against average and.932 save rate were the highest among NHL goalies who played in at least 20 games.Jaccob Slavin, Hurricanes defenseman, said that "I mean we wouldn't have been where we are now without him." We are thrilled for him from that perspective. He has been playing in the [American Hockey League] for some time and finally got his chance. He took full advantage. We are thrilled for him. It's amazing to see him achieve the success he has and be named as a finalist.
