William Karlsson, Barkov, O'Reilly named Lady Byng finalists

Aleksander Barkov of the Florida Panthers, William Karlsson of the Vegas Golden Knights, and Ryan O'Reilly of the Buffalo Sabres are the 2018 finalists for the Lady Byng Trophy, the NHL revealed Friday.

The award is given annually to the player adjudged by the Professional Hockey Writers' Association to have exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability.

O'Reilly somehow managed to take just one two-minute minor all season, while posting 61 points in 81 games. He won this honor in 2014.

Karlsson was assessed only 12 penalty minutes while amassing 43 goals and 78 points in 82 regular-season contests.

Barkov collected only 12 penalty minutes while racking up nearly a point per game in his own right (78 in 79). He finished second for this award two years ago.