Panarin defends controversial Calder nomination: 'The rules are the rules'

Artemi Panarin's first season in the NHL was a resounding success, scoring 77 points in 80 games, proving to be the dynamic scorer the Chicago Blackhawks hoped for when they lured him from the KHL last summer.

Panarin's success earned him a Calder Trophy nomination as the league's top rookie, along with Edmonton Oilers phenom Connor McDavid, and polarizing Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere.

Being 24 years old, and having played five pro seasons in the KHL, many believe Panarin shouldn't be eligible for the award. Though, he disagrees.

"I think it's fair because the rules are the rules, and (I) didn't write the rules," Panarin said, according to Mark Lazerus of the Chicago Sun-Times.

If Panarin doesn't win, an imminent raise for exceeding expectations should be a fair consolation.

No matter what side of the debate you're on, the outcome will be determined June 22 at the NHL Awards.