The 2026-27 Calder Trophy race remains tightly contested among a deep group of prospects because multiple 2025 and 2026 draftees project for immediate top-six ice time and power-play usage on NHL rosters. Porter Martone enters with prior regular-season and playoff experience that established his NHL readiness, while first-overall pick Gavin McKenna posted strong camp showings and early points alongside Toronto veterans. Ivar Stenberg impressed with a preseason hat trick and has secured a prominent role in San Jose, and other names like Cole Hutson, Anton Frondell, and Roman Kantserov benefit from rebuilding-team opportunities or proven pro production elsewhere. Early-season production, line chemistry, and injury developments will likely separate the group in the coming weeks.