NHL Draft 2012 Results: Nail Yakupov and Top Contenders for 2013 Calder Trophy

The 2012 NHL draft class will be on full display next season in what promises to be a thrilling battle for the 2013 Calder Trophy.

Since this class had so many quality defensemen, we may see a blueliner win the award, which has happened just twice since the 1996-97 season.

Let's take an early look at the top Calder Trophy candidates from this draft class.

Nail Yakupov

Nail Yakupov would be a Calder Trophy candidate on any team, but since he will playing with such great teammates in Edmonton, he will have a great chance to lead all rookies in scoring next season.

If he has Ryan Nugent-Hopkins or Sam Gagner as his center on the Oilers, then Yakupov could reach 70 points. Gabriel Landeskog of the Colorado Avalanche scored 52 points this season and won the Calder Trophy.

With Yakupov's elite-scoring ability, he could certainly hit the 25- to 30-goal mark next season on a very dangerous Oilers offense.

Ryan Murray

I have a tough team believing that Ryan Murray won't be on the Blue Jackets roster next season. He should play on one of their top two pairings and be an all-around force on the defense.

Since Columbus doesn't have a ton of talent at forward, they will need their defenseman to supply scoring on a nightly basis.

Offense isn't a huge part of Murray's game, but it's not a severe weakness either. If he plays well in his own end like he always does and puts up some impressive offensive numbers, then he could be a candidate for the Calder.

Teuvo Teravainen

The Blackhawks would be wise to bring Teuvo Teravainen to the NHL next season. He has the spectacular combination of elite-shooting skills and blazing speed, which will help him be effective at the NHL level.

Playing alongside the many talented forwards on the Blackhawks would only help Teravainen develop into the star whom he has the potential to become.

If Chicago brings Teravainen to the NHL next season, he will shine and have a chance to become a contender for the Calder.