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Blackhawks Fri May 17 2013
Patrick Kane Nominated for Lady Byng Trophy
The regular season awards trophy case might be a little crowded after all is said and done. Chicago Blackhawks winger Patrick Kane was named one of three finalists for the Lady Byng Trophy this week. Kane was the third player on the team to be named a finalist for a regular season award along with Brandon Saad (Calder) and Jonathan Toews (Selke).
According to the National Hockey League's website, "The Lady Byng Memorial Trophy is an annual award given to the player adjudged to have exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability."
The Professional Hockey Writers' Association selects the winner of the award.
The trophy that Kane is vying for is named after Evelyn Byng, Viscountess Byng of Vimy. In 1925, she donated the trophy to the NHL. Byng donated the trophy because she appreciated gentlemanly play and good sportsmanship and wanted to encourage and reward it.
When I first got word of Kane being one of the finalists for the award, I thought it kind of strange. Next, I started to think about it. He's far from a dirty player, he frustrates opponents, and he's regarded as a flashy player. Also, his slick demeanor during shootout periods is fast becoming the stuff of legend. If anything, wouldn't Toews or Marian Hossa fit the criteria for the award than Kane would? Shows you what I know.
There's no doubt that Kane has made some strides,personally and professionally, during the lockout-shortened season. The fact that Kane's name could be immortalized in history along with past Lady Byng winners such as Stan Mikita,Bobby Hull, and Wayne Gretzky shows that he is evolving into the franchise player the team envisioned he would be.
