The 2025-26 fantasy hockey season delivered its share of surprises, with Nathan MacKinnon leading the pack for the Art Ross Trophy despite a modest points pace compared to his record-breaking 2023-24 campaign. Connor McDavid's 2022-23 season still stands as the gold standard with 320.1 fantasy points, while MacKinnon's current total ranks ninth all-time among skaters since 2009-10. The Avalanche star could climb to sixth with a strong finish if he avoids rest.

Darren Raddysh emerged as the unexpected MVP, claiming the Hart Trophy after stepping in for injured Victor Hedman and setting a franchise record for goals by a defenseman. The 30-year-old Lightning blueliner, rostered in just 7.0% of leagues at season's start, delivered exceptional return on investment with nearly 30 power-play points. Meanwhile, Matthew Schaefer dominated the Calder race as the clear rookie of the year, with his defensive numbers at age 18 drawing comparisons to generational talents.

Evan Bouchard took home the Norris Trophy as the top fantasy defenseman after Cale Makar's injury opened the door. Andrei Vasilevskiy secured the Vezina despite potentially finishing with the lowest fantasy total for a leading goaltender since 2009-10, marking his third career top finish. The season also saw Matvei Michkov win the dubious 2012 Draft Trophy after a sophomore slump dropped his production significantly from his impressive rookie campaign.