New York, NY -- (Sports Network) - Chicago Blackhawks forwards Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews and Washington Capitals forward Nicklas Backstrom were announced as finalists Wednesday for the Calder Trophy for the NHL's top rookie.

Kane led all rookies in scoring in 2007-2008, posting 21 goals and 72 points in 82 games for Chicago. The first-overall pick in last year's draft was also the Hawks' leading scorer.

Toews finished third in rookie scoring with 54 points (24 goals, 30 assists) in 64 games, also placing third on the Blackhawks scoring list.

Goaltender Ed Belfour was the last Blackhawk to win the Calder, in 1991.

Backstrom ranked second among rookies with 14 goals and 69 points, playing in all 82 games for the resurgent Southeast Division champion Capitals. The 20- year-old was second among first-year players with a plus-13 rating.

If the young Swede takes home the trophy, he will follow star forward Alex Ovechkin, giving Washington two rookies of the year in three seasons.

The winner will be announced at the NHL award ceremony June 12 in Toronto. Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin took home the honor last year.