“Special honour for me” – Canadiens goalie Carey Price wins Masterton Trophy for perseverance
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Carey Price
Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price won the Masterton Trophy, given to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey on Friday. The Vancouver native National Hockey League (NHL) star earlier had an offseason knee surgery that was expected to keep him sidelined for 10-12 weeks.
The 34-year-old goalie even experienced setbacks that had him question whether his playing career was over. He also entered the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program in October for substance use.
“I’d like to first acknowledge ‘Big Z,’ Kevin, and all the other nominees from each team … the resilience and dedication in life and hockey,” Price said, as quoted by NHL.com. “I’d like to thank the Montreal Canadiens organization, the training staff and my teammates.
“… It’s definitely a special honour for me. I’m very grateful to receive this award. Looking at some of the past players that have received this is definitely a special list. There are a lot of players on there that I have a ton of respect for, and I’m very grateful to be a part of that.”
“Exceptional day for myself”
Price, who played five games this season, is the sixth Canadiens player to win the award and the first since forward Max Pacioretty in 2011-12. He made as many as 37 saves in a 10-2 win against the Florida Panthers in Montreal’s final game, marking his 700th NHL start. Notably, he is also the first goalie to win the award since Robin Lehner with the New York Islanders in 2018-19.
“It was just an exceptional day for myself,” Price said the day after that game. “I had a great sleep. It was just an A-plus day. If it is [my final game], then that would be a great way to do it.”
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