Imagine leading the hockey world for a whole month—now that sparks conversation! November’s most outstanding NHL players have been named, and the choices might stir up more than a little debate. Let’s dive into the details that everyone is talking about, and maybe uncover a few surprises that don’t make the headlines.
Shining Star at the Summit: Nathan MacKinnon
Colorado Avalanche’s center, Nathan MacKinnon, surged through November with performances nothing short of jaw-dropping. He didn’t just collect points—he dominated nearly every major category, leading the league in even-strength points (20), boasting a massive plus/minus (+20), and tying for the top in overall points (26). That’s no ordinary feat! Add to this his 11 goals and 15 assists (including 11 at even strength), and 57 shots on net, and you get a superstar powering Colorado to an 11-0-2 run—one of the most successful stretches in recent franchise history. MacKinnon had points in 11 of 13 games, lighting it up with seven multi-point outings, including an electrifying streak where he piled up 12 points in just three games (a mark not seen in Colorado since the legendary Peter Forsberg in 1995). Now firmly planted among the franchise’s all-time elites in career goals, assists, and points, the 30-year-old continues to set the pace for the league. Here’s the kicker most people miss: even though MacKinnon has come close, he hasn’t secured an Art Ross Trophy yet. Is this the year he finally claims it?
Jason Robertson’s Goal-Scoring Spree
Jason Robertson of the Dallas Stars turned up the heat in November, leading the NHL in both goals (13) and points (26) over 15 games. His shooting was relentless, racking up a league-best 62 shots and shining on the power play with 10 points, including 7 assists. Robertson’s consistency stood out—he scored in nine games, highlighted by a breathtaking seven-game goal streak from November 11–25. No one in Dallas has done that since the team’s move in 1993! He also had eight games with multiple points and three straight three-point performances, showcasing his growing reputation as a clutch performer. The 26-year-old, drafted 39th overall in 2017, now sits sixth in overall NHL points for the season. But here’s where things get controversial: can Robertson outscore favorites like MacKinnon this season, or is his hot streak just a flash?
The Young Phenom: Connor Bedard
Chicago Blackhawks’ rookie center Connor Bedard is making waves that few could have predicted. Not only did he rack up 23 points (10 goals, 13 assists) in 14 games—good for third among all NHLers in November—but he was directly involved in over half of Chicago’s goals during the month! For context, only Patrick Kane has matched this level of production for the Blackhawks in a single month this century. Bedard produced four games with at least three points, signaling not only raw talent but consistency as well. At just 20 years old, and already the third-leading scorer in the NHL this season, Bedard is flipping the script on what’s possible for a rookie. And here’s the part most people overlook: is it too soon to mention him in the same breath as franchise legends?
Fans in Focus: The Fourth Star
And let’s not forget the passionate fanbase—GEICO’s “Fourth Star” honors are also up for grabs, recognizing the most diehard supporters. Does your favorite team have the NHL’s loudest, most dedicated fans? Follow the latest fan spotlights and relive last season’s epic moments on the NHL’s official site!
What do you think? Did the voters make the right picks, or did someone get snubbed? Let’s get the debate going—who was your real star of November, and why? Drop a comment and join the conversation!