One of these individuals recognized for their sportsmanlike conduct is poised to be named the winner.
Jack Eichel representing the Vegas Golden Knights, Anze Kopitar of the Los Angeles Kings, and Brayden Point playing for the Tampa Bay Lightning were officially revealed as the three finalists for the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy on Friday. The candidates were selected based on voting results from the Professional Hockey Writers` Association.
The National Hockey League presents the Lady Byng Trophy annually “to the player adjudged to have exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability.”
Eichel, 28 years old, achieved his most productive season yet, recording 94 points from 28 goals and 66 assists, setting a new franchise record for the Golden Knights. Despite averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game across 77 contests, the former second overall draft pick accumulated only four minor penalties during the season.
Kopitar, aged 37, has the opportunity to become a three-time recipient of the award, having previously won in 2016 and 2023. A third win would put him in rare company with only Pavel Datsyuk (four wins) and Martin St. Louis (three wins) having claimed the trophy three or more times. The Kings` captain was a key player in leading his team to a second-place finish in the Pacific Division, contributing 67 points (21 goals, 46 assists) over 81 games while receiving just two minor penalties.
Point, 29, successfully reached the 40-goal and 80-point marks for the third consecutive season, contributing significantly to the Lightning`s second-place standing in the Atlantic Division. The nine-year NHL veteran participated in 77 games and incurred a total of only seven penalty minutes, consisting of one major and one minor penalty.
Tristan Blackwood