The NHL announced the three finalists for the 2015 Lady Byng Memorial Trophy on Tuesday: Pavel Datsyuk of the Detroit Red Wings, Anze Kopitar of the Los Angeles Kings and Jiri Hudler of the Calgary Flames.
To refresh your memory, the award is handed out to the player who “exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability.” Voting comes down to members of the Professional Hockey Writers’ Association.
If you gauage award chances by past victories, then Pavel Datsyuk stands as a heavy favorite. The Red Wings star won it four times in a row from the 2005-06 season through the 2008-09 campaign.
Hudler and Kopitar haven’t won a single Byng in their careers, on the other hand.
Colorado Avalanche forward Ryan O’Reilly took the 2014 award.
Here are some quick factoids about each finalist via the NHL:
.@DetroitRedWings' @Datsyuk13 captured the Lady Byng for 4 straight years (2006-2009) & also was a finalist in 2010. pic.twitter.com/HZEXtQ9IF9
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) April 21, 2015
A first-time finalist, @NHLFlames' Hudler set career highs in goals, assists & points in 2014-15 & had just 14 PIM. pic.twitter.com/yv8vMgKCI5
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) April 21, 2015
.@AnzeKopitar (16-48—64) led @LAKings in scoring for the 8th straight season & had just 5 minor penalties in 79 GP. pic.twitter.com/iscMav9Hv3
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) April 21, 2015