The new year is as close to a halfway point as the NHL gets, as teams have played for three months with another three-plus left.
So as the calendar flips, it’s time to reflect on the stars, scores and standout performances that have marked the first half of the season. And what better way to do that than see where things stand in each major awards race:
(All statistics updated through Thursday’s games.)
Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP)
Nikita Kucherov, Right wing, Tampa Bay Lightning
The best player on the NHL’s best team looks to be the early leader in the race to win the Hart.