Two key players from the Florida Panthers roster have been recognized as finalists for the Selke Trophy, the annual award presented to the National Hockey League forward deemed best in defensive play.
Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov and forward Sam Reinhart were officially announced as candidates for the prestigious award on Friday. Their joint nomination marks a rare occurrence; they are the first pair of teammates to be named Selke finalists in the same season since Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg of the Detroit Red Wings achieved the distinction during the 2007-08 campaign.
Historically, only a handful of other teammate duos have been recognized as Selke finalists while playing for the same team. These include Sergei Fedorov and Steve Yzerman (Red Wings, 1995-96), Dirk Graham and Steve Larmer (Chicago Blackhawks, 1990-91), and Craig Ramsay and Don Luce (Buffalo Sabres, 1979-80).
Barkov is a familiar name among Selke contenders, having previously won the trophy twice in 2021 and 2024. This nomination is his fourth time being selected as a finalist. In contrast, this marks the inaugural Selke finalist nod for Reinhart, highlighting his strong defensive performance this season.
Completing the list of three finalists is Anthony Cirelli, the skilled center for the Tampa Bay Lightning. This is also the first time Cirelli has been named a finalist for the Selke Trophy in his career.
The recipient of the Frank J. Selke Trophy is chosen based on voting conducted by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association following the conclusion of the NHL regular season. The award specifically honours the forward who demonstrates exceptional skill and effectiveness in the defensive aspects of the game.
Tristan Blackwood