Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang was named the winner of the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded to the NHL player "who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey."
Letang suffered the second stroke of his career in November but miraculously returned to the Pens' lineup less than two weeks later. The 36-year-old led all Penguins skaters in average ice time (24:51) and led the club's defensemen with 41 points in 64 games.
Letang spoke further about the meaning of winning the award.
What a remarkable journey it's been for Kris Letang (@Letang_58). 🐧 #NHLAwards pic.twitter.com/a6XLNYBETu
— NHL (@NHL) June 27, 2023
Arizona Coyotes forward Clayton Keller and Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Alex Stalock were the other two finalists.
Keller suffered a gruesome leg fracture at the end of the 2021-22 campaign but returned on time to start the 2022-23 season. He tallied a team-leading 86 points while playing all 82 games.
Stalock was limited to just one NHL game over the previous two seasons due to a myocarditis diagnosis but was stellar in 2022-23. He posted a .908 save percentage in 27 games for the rebuilding Blackhawks.
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