Aleksander Barkov, Loui Eriksson and Anze Kopitar were all named as finalists for the Lady Byng trophy, which goes “to the player adjudged to have exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability.”
Are we sure a King should be nominated for such an award?
In all seriousness, all three choices are great. Barkov had a breakout season leading the Florida Panthers to the playoffs and only had eight penalty minutes on the season. Eriksson’s name was all over during the trade deadline and his level of play never waned during that time. He only had twelve penalty minutes during the regular season. Kopitar is the “superstar” of the bunch and at the end of the regular season he had seventy-four points and sixteen penalty minutes. As you can see, all three have certain attributes that could net them the award.
What about a possible Shark player? Patrick Marleau ended his season with forty-eight points and only ten penalty minutes. I am sure he was in the conversation but his preseason trade request may have caused some pause when decisions were being made. That didn’t hurt Martin St. Louis‘ chances a couple seasons back. So why should it change now?
Enough complaining from me about arbitrary awards. The playoffs are happening, watch them tomorrow at 5 PM PST on NBCSN.
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