Stars And Sticks NHL Mid-Season Awards: Luongo, Predators Come Up Big

NHL Awards: Lady Byng

Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Lady Byng goes to the player who best encompasses sportsmanship. This award is usually a complete joke. Last year, for some odd reason, voters thought that a guy who demanded a trade from his team because he was originally snubbed for the Olympics best encompassed sportsmanship. I’m going to try to take this award as seriously as I can. I picked Marcus Johansson of the Washington Capitals. 

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This is more than just a huge homer pick. Johansson has taken just one minor penalty this entire NHL season. That minor penalty was about as gentlemanly as you can get as far as penalties: delay of game. It’s more than just that though. He’s active in the community and is an all-around good guy. This award is usually viewed as a joke, why not give it to someone who actually encompasses sportsmanship? I believe that Johansson does.

My ballot:

1. Johansson
2. Patrick Kane. One minor penalty with all of his playing time is impressive.
3. Patrick Marleau. Two minor penalties all season, and who doesn’t love Marleau? Seriously.

Next: Selke Trophy