Jack Hughes, Kopitar, Point voted Lady Byng finalists
New Jersey Devils forward Jack Hughes, Los Angeles Kings forward Anze Kopitar, and Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brayden Point were named finalists for the 2023 Lady Byng Memorial Trophy on Tuesday.
The award is given annually to the "player adjudged to have exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability." It's voted on by the Professional Hockey Writers Association.
Hughes enjoyed a breakout campaign with the Devils this season. He registered career highs with 43 goals and 99 points while logging only six penalty minutes. He finished seventh in Lady Byng voting last year having received five first-place votes.
Kopitar captured the Lady Byng in 2016 and was a finalist in 2015. The 35-year-old returned to form in 2022-23 with 28 goals and 74 points, both personal highs since 2018. He was assessed only four penalty minutes despite playing the 10th-most minutes among forwards.
Point is a first-time finalist for an NHL award. He hit the 50-goal plateau in 2022-23 and set a new career high with 95 points. The 27-year-old was assessed two penalties all season - a slashing minor in overtime Nov. 3 and a fighting major Feb. 7. He's looking to become the third Lightning player to win the award after Brad Richards and three-time winner Martin St. Louis.
NHL award winners will be revealed June 26 in Nashville.