(CBS) — Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews was on Wednesday night named the winner of the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award, given annually to the player who displays great leadership on and off the ice.
The 27-year-old Toews is the first player in franchise history to win the award, which is awarded by Hall of Famer Mark Messier himself. In addition to leading Chicago to its third Stanley Cup in six seasons, Toews is active in the community, participating in Make-A-Wish visits and other endeavors.
Also on Wednesday, Toews finished second for the Frank J. Selke Trophy, given annually to the best defensive forward in the NHL. Bruins center Patrice Bergeron won the award for the third time in four years.
Toews previously won the award in 2013 and was also a finalist for in 2010. Toews ranked fifth in the NHL with a +30 plus/minus, a career-high, and also ranked sixth in the NHL in winning 56.5 percent of his faceoffs. He also had 66 points, including 28 goals.
The other Selke finalist was Anze Kopitar of the Los Angeles Kings. Blackhawks winger Marian Hossa finished seventh.
