NHL legend Wayne Gretzky explains why Connor McDavid deserves Hart Trophy
Wayne Gretzky has made his choice clear in the Hart Trophy debate for the 2025-26 NHL season. The hockey icon believes Connor McDavid deserves the award after another dominant season with the Edmonton Oilers . Speaking on NHLonTNT, Gretzky praised several standout players across the league.
Gretzky highlighted Cole Caufield (51 goals) for his scoring surge and impact in Montreal. He also pointed to Macklin Celebrini (112 points) for an impressive sophomore season despite missing the playoffs. Gretzky even mentioned Philadelphia’s rise behind its netminder, Dan Vladar.
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Look at how exciting their team is. … Celebrini, probably missing the playoffs, hurt him a little bit, but he’s had a phenomenal year. “And then, gosh, my real dark horse was the goaltender in Philadelphia.
Look at the year he had. Look where they are. They’re in the playoffs.