The Toronto Chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association has voted goaltender Jack Campbell its nominee for the 2021 Bill Masterton Trophy honoring ‘perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey’.
Campbell was a catalyst during a crucial part of the Maple Leafs schedule, rising from his back-up role to set a National Hockey League record with 11 consecutive victories to start a season. In winning 16 of his first 20 decisions, the second-year Leaf also broke George Hainsworth’s club mark of 15 from 1934-35.
As of today, Campbell is 17-2-2, with a 2.11 GAA and a .923 save percentage, which is seventh in the NHL among goalies with 20 or more games played and helped the Leafs clinch their first division title in 21 years.
The 29-year-old from Port Huron, Mich., has been praised often by players, coaches and management for an unfailing attitude and vocal support of teammates in games, practices, media interviews and away from the rink. Campbell’s perseverance to be a leader on his team was a long road that began as a first-round pick of the Dallas Stars in 2010. He sometimes struggled to live up to his draft status, but built his reputation as a reliable substitute and positive influence.
The trophy was created in 1968 to commemorate the late Bill Masterton of the Minnesota North Stars, a widely respected player who died after an on-ice accident that year. Previous Leaf nominees for the Masterton include winger Zach Hyman and defenseman Morgan Rielly. All 31 NHL Chapters choose a nominee, the winner voted on by the entire PHWA at the end of the regular season.
*******If you are interested in sponsorship or advertising your business in the Greater Toronto / Southern Ontario area on this column, please send a message for more information by clicking on the “Contact” button at the top of the page.*******
Toronto Maple Leafs Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»