One thing's for sure.  If leading the Buffalo Sabres to a playoff spot for the first time in six years isn't enough incentive for Jack Eichel, being passed over for Rookie of the Year honors may be.

The NHL released its three finalists for Rookie of the Year on Monday and despite finishing second in goals and points during his rookie season, that wasn't enough for Eichel.  Number one draft choice Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers, who missed half the season with an injury, did make the cut.  McDavid finished third best in points per game among rookies.

Also making the cut was Chicago's Artemi Panarin who had the advantage of playing with Patrick Kane all season.  Panarin is a 24-year-old rookie in the NHL, but has played pro hockey in Russia for the past six years.

The third finalist was Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Shayne Gotisbehere who had four overtime goals and a 15-game point scoring streak.

Is it fair to Eichel?  Maybe not, but in their head to head encounter in Buffalo McDavid was the better of the two players, scoring both Edmonton goals including the game winner in overtime.  Eichel will have plenty of time in his career to prove himself.

 

 

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