Which NHL award is presented annually to the league's best rookie?
Answer
Calder Memorial Trophy
Answer
Calder Memorial Trophy
The Calder Memorial Trophy is presented annually to the NHL's best rookie.
The award was first presented after the 1932–33 season and is voted on by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association. To qualify as a rookie, a player must meet NHL experience limits, including restrictions on games played in previous seasons and age at the start of the season.
The trophy honors Frank Calder, the NHL's first president, who served from the league's founding in 1917 until his death in 1943. It was originally called the Calder Trophy; the word “Memorial” was added in 1971 after Calder's death.
The Calder is often confused with the Hart Memorial Trophy, which recognizes the league's most valuable player regardless of experience. Notable Calder winners include Frank Brimsek, Bobby Orr, Mario Lemieux, Teemu Selänne, and Connor McDavid.
Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026