Barkov becomes first Panthers player to be named NHL’s best defensive forward
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Friday, June 18, 2021
SUNRISE, Fla. – The National Hockey League announced today that Florida Panthers Captain Aleksander Barkov has been named the recipient of the 2020-21 Frank J. Selke Trophy, awarded annually ‘to the forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game.’
“This recognition of Sasha’s ability stands as a testament to his growth as a player and as a leader,” said Panthers General Manager Bill Zito. “The Florida Panthers organization is tremendously proud of our captain’s achievements. The Selke Trophy is synonymous with sacrifice, and over the past eight seasons Sasha has demonstrated time and again that he is willing to do what it takes for the team to succeed.”
Barkov becomes the second Finland-born player to win the award after Jere Lehtinen (1998, 1999, 2003). Other finalists for this year’s Selke Trophy were Patrice Bergeron (Boston Bruins) and Mark Stone (Vegas Golden Knights).
Barkov, 25, appeared in 50 regular season games with Florida in 2020-21, registering 58 points (26-32-58). Barkov led the Panthers in goals (26), even-strength goals (18), even-strength points (38) and shots on goal (176), while leading the team’s forwards in takeaways (39) and total ice time (1,046:52).
The 6-foot-3, 215-pound native of Tampere, Finland, registered a career-high 54.9 faceoff win percentage, taking 1,026 total faceoffs. Barkov owned a 59.0 offensive zone faceoff win percentage and 53.2 defensive zone faceoff win percentage. The Panthers captain is one of just 10 NHL forwards to take over 1,000 faceoffs this season. Of the 10 forwards, Barkov had the fewest games played. His 20:56 average time on ice per game ranked ninth among NHL forwards.
Originally selected second overall by Florida in the 2013 NHL Draft, Barkov won the 2019 Lady Byng Memorial Trophy awarded annually ‘to the player adjudged to have exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability.’
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