The Future of the NHL: A Look Ahead 10 Years

Jaromir Jagr, Jarome Iginla, Martin Brodeur, Nicklas Lidstrom. These are some of the most recognizable names in hockey right now. There's no denying that these guys are all well on their way to the hall of fame. Ten years from now though, they will all be sitting pretty in the hall of fame, while a new generation of superstars emerge. We've already seen it start with the likes of Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin. Here are my predictions as to who might be taking home some hardware in the NHL by 2018.

Rocket Richard Trophy

John Tavares

There hasn't been a player with this much hype surrounding him since Sidney Crosby tore up juniors half a decade ago. He started his OHL career at 14 and has been leading the league in points since he was 16. He is draft eligible in 2009, and will almost assuredly be a consensus number one pick.

Others in the running: Steven Stamkos, Alexander Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin

Norris Trophy 

Dion Phaneuf

Phaneuf came into the league in 2005 and had an immediate impact. He was a 20 goal scoring defenseman as a rookie, and has been one of the best in the league ever since. He was overshadowed by the likes of Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin, but he's primed to become the next Chris Pronger.

Others in the running: Erik Johnson, Jack Johnson, Dustin Byfuglien

Vezina Trophy 

Carey Price

Canadiens fans scoffed when Cristobal Huet was traded away to Washington for next to nothing, but the Montreal organization was confident enough in Carey Price to make him the starting goaltender for their team going into the playoffs as a rookie. He's already shown that he has the skill to be a tremendous goaltender at the professional level, and he'll be playing in one of the best hockey markets in the world.

Others in the running: Justin Pogge, Jonathan Bernier, Marc Andre Fleury

Hart Memorial Trophy 

Sidney Crosby

Sid the Kid will still be in his prime when 2018 rolls around, and he'll still be the best player in the league. He won't be putting up 60 goals, but he's the best playmaker in the league, and he makes everyone around him better, which is what being the MVP is all about.

Others in the running: Patrick Kane, John Tavares, Dion Phaneuf