Columbus Blue Jackets forward Nick Foligno has been named a finalist for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, alongside San Jose Sharks forward Joe Thornton and New York Islanders goalie Robin Lehner.
The Masterton Trophy is awarded every season to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of sportsmanship, perseverance and dedication to hockey. It is named after Bill Masterton, the only player to die as a direct result of injuries sustained in an NHL game. Last year's winner, Brian Boyle, returned to the New Jersey Devils' lineup after being diagnosed with and undergoing treatment for cancer.
Foligno's nomination comes after missing two stretches of games this season while two of his children faced health issues. He stepped away from the team in December as his daughter Milana underwent heart surgery, and again in March as his son Hudston had a severe case of pneumonia.
No Blue Jacket has won the award since the team began play in 2000.
