Florida Panthers star Jaromir Jagr was named as a finalist for the 2015-16 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy on Sunday.
The trophy is presented by the National Hockey League and is described as going to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.
Jagr's competition for the trophy is Pascal Dupuis of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Mats Zuccarello of the New York Rangers.
During the season, Jagr led Florida in scoring with 66 points total. The 44-year old had 27 goals and 39 assists. The 27 goals were the most for Jagr since the 2006-07 season when he was with the Rangers. Jagr also became the oldest player in NHL history to eclipse 60 points in a season.
A press release for the trophy's finalists also references Jagr's work with his teammates specifically Aleksander Barkov and Jonathan Huberdeau. Jagr is praised for his work ethic and mentorship of players much younger than him. Barkov and Huberdeau both enjoyed fine seasons playing on the same side as Jagr.
While Jagr was kept quiet in Florida's playoff run, the veteran has shown an interest in a return engagement for the 2016-17 season. The team has also made it known that the interest is mutual. A continued marriage between Jagr and the Panthers is expected though not guaranteed at this point.
The winner of the Masterton Trophy will be announced on June 22nd during the NHL Awards.
