The NHL Players’ Association has unveiled the three finalists for the 2025-26 Ted Lindsay award, recognizing the most outstanding player as voted by fellow players.[1][2] Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers, and Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks make up an elite group. This player-voted honor often aligns closely with the Hart Trophy, with 23 players claiming both in the same season historically.[3]
Each contender posted monster numbers this season, but factors like team context, age, and repeat performances will sway the votes. Kucherov defends his title from last year, McDavid chases a fifth, and Celebrini emerges as a young phenom. Here’s a ranking of the finalists based on their campaigns and award trajectories.
3. Nikita Kucherov, right wing, Tampa Bay Lightning
Kucherov enters as the defending Ted Lindsay winner after a dominant 2024-25 season with 37 goals and 121 points. This year, he elevated his game further, tallying 44 goals and 130 points in 76 games. His consistency post-lockout era scoring surges stands out, especially leading the Lightning’s attack.
The Russian star’s playmaking and scoring touch powered Tampa Bay deep into the playoffs again. Despite missing some time, his point-per-game pace rivaled the league’s best. Kucherov’s edge in high-danger chances created and goals showcases why peers respect him.
Yet, stiff competition tempers his chances for a third win. As noted in our final 2025-26 NHL awards watch, Kucherov’s hardware haul includes Art Ross and NHL points titles recently, but voters may spread love elsewhere.
Kucherov’s two prior Ted Lindsay wins (2019 and 2025) highlight his elite status. He thrives in clutch moments, like his playoff heroics. Still, against flashier narratives, he ranks third here.
- Key stats: 44 goals, 86 assists, 130 points in 76 GP
- Team impact: Led Lightning in scoring by 30+ points
- Awards history: 2x Ted Lindsay, multiple Art Ross
His peers know his value, but the field is too deep for a repeat sweep.
2. Connor McDavid, center, Edmonton Oilers
McDavid boasts four Ted Lindsay awards already, with his last in 2022-23. This season, he paced the NHL with 138 points (48 goals, 90 assists), topping assists and finishing third in goals. The Oilers captain’s speed and vision redefine center play.
Edmonton’s contender status amplifies his case. McDavid carried the offense, especially post-All-Star break surges. His peers often crown him the league’s best, as seen in past votes.
However, familiarity might dilute votes. In discussions like why the Ted Lindsay award should be the NHL’s MVP of record, McDavid’s dominance is undisputed, yet a fresh face could edge him. He remains a perennial threat.
McDavid’s hardware includes three Harts too. His 200+ point potential looms eternally. For 2025-26, his league-leading totals make a strong bid.
- Key stats: 48 goals, 90 assists, 138 points (NHL lead)
- League ranks: 1st points/assists, 3rd goals
- Awards history: 4x Ted Lindsay winner
Expect him high on ballots, possibly winning, but not the top pick here.
1. Macklin Celebrini, center, San Jose Sharks
At 19, Celebrini’s sophomore explosion defines “outstanding.” He notched 45 goals and 115 points, outpacing teammates by 56—a staggering gap on a rebuilding Sharks squad.[4] His carry job mirrors legends like McDavid’s early days.
Celebrini’s all-situations dominance shines: power-play wizardry, penalty kill contributor, and franchise-record points haul. Passing Thornton for Sharks scoring mark underscores his impact. Peers value such context, per NHLPA voting trends.
The Sharks missed playoffs, hurting Hart odds, but Ted Lindsay focuses purely on individual brilliance. His youth and output scream future star. For full past winners, see the NHL’s official list.
Celebrini’s Hobey Baker pedigree translates seamlessly. He leads in shots (287) and drives play relentlessly.
- Key stats: 45 goals, 70 assists, 115 points in 82 GP
- Team lead: +56 points over next Shark
- Sophomore feats: Franchise points record
By definition, he’s the most outstanding—ranking first.
These finalists embody NHL excellence, with votes revealing peers’ top pick soon. Celebrini’s narrative might prevail, boosting San Jose’s rebuild, while Kucherov and McDavid chase legacy. Watch how it shapes the Hart race too; the best player debate rages on.[5]
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.