NHL Calder Trophy Odds 2025-26

Deep Dive on The Favorite

Matthew Schaefer is the favorite to win the Calder Trophy, as this will be his rookie season. After the Islanders took him with the first pick, he has been excellent in his time with the team. He currently has a slim lead over Ivan Demidov. 

Rookie of The Year Challengers

While Schaefer is the clear favorite, others can definitely step up and take home the Calder Trophy. Here are some of the challengers that Schaefer will face for the Calder Trophy in the 2025-26 season. 

NHL Calder Trophy Odds

Beckett Sennecke 

Beckett Sennecke has come out of nowhere, and has become excellent in a short time for the Anaheim Ducks. He is hoping to help them get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2018, while also establishing himself in the Calder Trophy race. 

Ivan Demidov 

Ivan Demidov has emerged as one of the clear favorites for the Calder Trophy, showcasing the elite scoring touch and creativity that made him a top prospect. Early odds place him near the top of the rookie field, and his strong start with Montreal has only strengthened his case. If he maintains this pace, Demidov could be the rookie to beat.

Jesper Wallstedt

Jesper Wallstedt has been a stabilizing force in net for the Wild, delivering calm, technically sound goaltending well beyond his years. His early-season heroics have not only kept Minnesota competitive but also firmly placed him in the Calder Trophy conversation as one of the league’s top rookies.

Beckett Sennecke Odds To Win Calder Trophy

Beckett Sennecke has gotten off to a solid start in his rookie season with the Ducks. Not only is he putting up points, but he is maintaining his role on the second line. Sennecke also produced a multi-goal game in just his 15th appearance. He currently has +1000 odds to win the Calder Trophy. 

Rookie or Not?

NHL players must be 26 years or younger to win the Calder Trophy. Additionally, they must not have played more than 25 games in the previous season, or not have played in at least six games in each of the past two or more seasons. NHL players must be in their first full rookie season. There is some value to having some experience, but other "true rookies" like Connor Bedard, have won the Calder Trophy before. 

Position Bias in Betting

Offensive stats are flashier, which is probably why forwards get more favoritism with bettors when it comes to the Calder Trophy. Additionally, they have more ice time in critical moments to showcase their mettle. While goalies have won the Calder before, there has not been a goalie winner since Steve Mason won it in 2009. Forwards usually get the first look, followed by the defenseman.  

Media Impact

The Calder Trophy turns players into instant stars. Ultimately, the media will praise a player who is performing well, and it can shift the odds one way or another. When this happens, it provides more encouragement for voters to choose a player to win, and it also influences how fans might view a Calder Trophy candidate. 

Value Hunting Strategy

The best time to pick a Calder Trophy winner is before the season starts, usually in the summer. Players like Jimmy Snuggerud have immensely higher value, as do Alexander Nikishin and Michael Misa. Picking either of those two to win could net a $300 payout on a $20 bet. 

My Biggest Takeaway

The Calder Trophy has a clear favorite, with Schaefer leading the charge. While I am intrigued by the possibility of Misa emerging, it's also important to remember that really young players typically have a tough time adjusting to the NHL at first. Demidov has an excellent opportunity to make a huge impact, and will do enough to snag the Calder Trophy.