NHL Announces Selke Award Finalists

NHL award season is upon us and the league has started to name some finalists. Let's start off with the Selke trophy, given out each season for the best defensive forward. The 2022-23 finalists include:

Patrice Bergeron, Boston Bruins

Shocker, we know. Patrice Bergeron is likely going to have this award named after him one day. Bergeron is simply the best when it comes to shutting down opponents and his ability to win key faceoffs is one of his best attributes. This is the Bruins' captain's 12th consecutive nomination and he's won the award five times. Bergeron recorded 58 points in 78 games and was a +35. He won 61.1% of his faceoffs. 

Nico Hischier, New Jersey Devils

This is Nico Hischier's first nomination after a fantastic season with the Devils. He ranked second on the team with 80 points in 81 games and led New Jersey with 64 takeaways, while also winning 53.9% of his faceoffs. Hischier also played a key role on the team's penalty kill, which ranked fourth best in the league.

Mitch Marner, Toronto Maple Leafs

A rare winger nominated, Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs is a finalist for the first time. Marner does it all in Toronto and led the entire NHL with 104 takeaways. He also ranked fifth in the league in forward ice time and Toronto outscored opponents 64-39 while Marner was on the ice five-on-five. 

Winner will be announced June.26 at the NHL Awards.

Photo credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports