ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Zach Currier
This is one of the most difficult categories to assess given the lack of pro history for any of the candidates. The preceding draft’s No. 1 pick has only been rookie of the year three times in the last 10 years, so don’t assume the 2017 No. 1 pick by Buffalo, Josh Byrne, will have a clear path the hardware. Last year’s winner, Tom Schreiber of the Rock, was never drafted. Stephan Leblanc of the Rock won it in 2010 after being the 11th player drafted. All that said, I like the chances of No. 3 pick and Calgary rookie Zach Currier picking up this trophy. He can change the pace of a game with his super-fast transient breakouts, as he proved in an important role in the Lakers’ September run. Four No. 3 picks have emerged as the top rookie. Currier could be the fifth in 11 years.
MVP
Mark Matthews
The Saskatchewan Rush lefty is the only player to be an MVP finalist in each of the last three years. He’s yet to win it. If the Rush have the super season of which they are entirely capable, it will be time to recognize the consistent greatness of a player who is the epitome of the team-first approach.
SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD
Tom Schreiber
This slippery right-hander darted around opposition zones to score 33 goals and amass 94 points for Toronto and was named rookie of the year in a landslide vote. He played all 18 regular-season Rock games, yet, even though he was chased and checked by menacing defensemen, he spent zero minutes in penalty boxes last season. Surprisingly, he was not a finalist in this category. He should be this season, unless an uncharacteristic mean streak rears its ugly head.