Offseason news for the Penguins:
- Defenseman Kris Letang is a finalist for the NHL’s Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, which is awarded to the player “who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.” Letang scored 12 goals and had 29 assists in 64 games despite suffering a stroke, the death of his father, and and undisclosed injury, and having to take a leave of absence from the team due to family matters.
Arizona forward Clayton Keller and Chicago goaltender Alex Stalock are the other finalists for the Masterton Trophy.
- Forward Evgeni Malkin is the Penguins nominee for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy, which is awarded to the player “who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community.” Each of the league’s 32 teams nominates a player for the award. No Penguin has ever won it, although forward Jason Zucker won it when he played for Minnesota. Malkin was nominated for his “I’m Score for the Kids” charity work.
- Penguins free agent forward Nick Bonino has been named captain of the U.S. team for the International Ice Hockey Federation World Championship tournament. He’ll be joined by Penguins goaltender Casey DeSmith and forward Drew O’Connor on the American team.
Penguins defenseman P.O. Joseph will play for Canada and forward Alex Nylander will suit up for Sweden. Penguins farmhand Justin Assamo will play for France.
The tournament begins Friday in Finland and Latvia.
