Buffalo Sabres defenseman Owen Power on Wednesday was named one of three finalists for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s rookie of the year.
Power, 20, enjoyed a dynamic season, stepping into the lineup and providing an immediate impact. He led all rookies in ice time per game (23:48) and total ice minutes (1,880:20), the fifth- and seventh-highest figures, respectively, since the league began tracking the stat 25 years ago.
The 6-foot-6, 218-pound Power ranked third among rookies in assists (31), tied for third in plus-minus (plus-10) and ranked fourth in power-play assists (eight).
Overall, he compiled four goals and 35 points in 79 games as the Sabres fell one win shy of earning a playoff spot.
Power, the first overall pick out of Michigan in 2021, is the Sabres’ first Calder Trophy finalist since defenseman Rasmus Dahlin in 2019. Dahlin finished third.
Three Sabres – Gilbert Perreault in 1970-71, Tom Barrasso in 1983-84 and Tyler Myers in 2009-10 – have earned the Calder Trophy.
Seattle Kraken center Matty Beniers (24 goals and 57 points in 80 games) and Edmonton Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner (29 wins in 50 games) are the other finalists.
The winner will be announced during the NHL Awards on June 26.
