With the playoffs starting a week from today and the Habs’ first-round playoff matchup still undecided, almost all of the recent publicity has been surrounding both their position in the standings and multiple players attempting to achieve career milestones and set franchise records. Caufield hit 50, Slaf hit 30, and Dobes is one win away from 30 -- now it's time for both Mike Matheson and Nick Suzuki to secure their own recognition as they look to join a prestigious list of Montreal Canadiens.
The Bill Masterson Trophy honours those who best represent perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. Generally, past winners overcome detrimental barriers such as injuries, sicknesses, or mental health issues. While Matheson fortunately hasn't experienced that type of personal setback, he is nominated due to his improved defensive play and penalty-killing abilities, as well as his veteran presence and collaborative leadership abilities. The assistant captain will look to become the 7th Montreal Canadien to stamp their name on the award -- the most recent coming in 2021-22 when goaltender Carey Price deservedly took home the hardware following his throbbing knee injuries and time spent in the NHLPA's player assistance program.
On the other hand, the King Clancy Trophy is awarded to the player who best exhibits leadership both on and off the ice, as well as making substantial contributions to their local community. While Suzuki has propelled himself to be one of the top players on the planet while sitting just 2 points away from 100 on the season, his charity work in the Montreal area is arguably at par with his on-ice performances. Our captain is largely involved in multiple charitable acts, including the Asista Foundation, focused on training shelter dogs to become service dogs for children with health issues, as well as supporting the annual Canadiens Casino Night, which raised over $370,000 this past February.
The last Canadien to take home the honour was former captain Saku Koivu in 2007, after battling and later conquering Burkitt's Lymphoma, a disease which he then raised funds for treatment and research at Montreal General Hospital.
While all 32 teams submit nominees for both awards, 3 finalists are selected, and the winner is announced at the NHL Awards, likely taking place in late June following the Stanley Cup Final. Matheson, Suzuki, and the rest of the Habs have 3 games remaining in the regular season, including tonight at 7:00 pm EST at home against the Columbus Blue Jackets.