Ovechkin, Tavares, Weber named finalists for NHL's leadership award

Alex Ovechkin doesn't have to win a championship to add something entirely new to his trophy case this summer.

The Washington Capitals sniper was named one of three finalists for the Mark Messier Leadership award, joining John Tavares of the New York islanders and Shea Weber of the Nashville Predators.

The recognition, which has been awarded nine times previously, is reserved for the player who denotes superior leadership within their sport through on-ice performance, motivation of team members, and dedication to community activities.

Jonathan Toews was selected by Messier for the honor last season.

Neither Tavares, Weber, or Ovechkin, whose leadership has been a contentious topic in the past, have won the award previously.