Detroit Red Wings forward Pavel Datsyuk's favorite trophy isn't the one you might expect.
The two-time Stanley Cup champion and three-time Frank J. Selke Trophy winner has a soft spot for another award.
"I like it, to be nominated for anything. Lady Byng is important for me, too," Datsyuk told Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press. "I think it's the best trophy ever."
Datsyuk was announced as a finalist for the Lady Byng Trophy on Tuesday, along with Los Angeles Kings forward Anze Kopitar and Calgary Flames forward Jiri Hudler.
The award is presented annually to the player who best embodies the values of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct while also playing the game at an elite level.
"It's impressive," Red Wings captain Henrik Zetterberg said. "If you look back to the years he played in this league, he probably could be nominated every year, and have a good chance of winning every year.
"He's a special player, and it's awesome to see that he gets rewarded."
Datsyuk has won the Lady Byng four times from 2006 to 2009 and the Selke Trophy in three consecutive years from 2008 to 2010.
