Craig Anderson's difficult season is ending with some recognition.
The Ottawa Senators goaltender was nominated for the Bill Masterton Trophy by the Ottawa chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association, the club announced Monday.
Every club's local chapter nominates one player for the award, given annually to the player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.
Anderson has taken multiple leaves of absence this season to attend to his wife, Nicholle, who was diagnosed with a rare form of throat cancer in October.
He took an extended leave in December to be with her while she underwent treatment, returning after the All-Star break with a memorable shutout victory.
Related: Anderson 'definitely emotional' after earning shutout in return
Anderson became the Senators' all-time wins leader among goalies earlier this month, and he's 22-10-2 with a 2.32 GAA, .927 save percentage, and four shutouts in 2016-17.
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