Cirelli, Nelson, Suzuki Named Selke Trophy Finalists Anthony Cirelli, Brock Nelson, and Nick Suzuki have been named finalists for the Frank J. Selke Trophy, an annual award recognizing the forward who excels in the defensive aspects of the game. The winners, selected by the Professional Hockey Writers Association, will be announced later this season. Cirelli, Nelson, and Suzuki represent the Tampa Bay Lightning, Colorado Avalanche, and Montreal Canadiens, respectively, and their performances this season have positioned them as strong contenders for the honor. Cirelli, the Lightning’s center, led the team with 52 points (23 goals, 29 assists) in 71 games, marking a career-high in scoring. His plus-38 rating, the highest among Lightning forwards, underscored his impact on both ends of the ice. The 26-year-old also excelled in face-offs, winning 48.2% of his 1,075 attempts, and contributed to the Lightning’s second-place finish in the NHL with a plus-57 goal differential. His 17:19 average ice time per game, including 2:38 short-handed, highlighted his role in the team’s power play, which ranked third in the league at 82.6%. Cirelli’s presence on the ice also saw the Lightning take 55.7% of all shot attempts (SAT%) at 5-on-5, a testament to his ability to control play. Nelson, the Avalanche’s center, posted 65 points (33 goals, 32 assists) in 81 games, averaging 19:39 of ice time. His offensive contributions included 10 power-play goals and nine game-winning goals, while his defensive work helped the Avalanche lead the league with an 84.6 penalty kill percentage. Nelson’s face-off success, with a 50.4% win rate and 1,459 attempts (fourth in the NHL), further solidified his value.#tampa_bay_lightning #frank_j_selke_trophy #nick_suzuki #anthony_cirelli #brock_nelson
Troy Murray cancer: Former Chicago Blackhawks center, beloved broadcaster dies at 63 after diagnosis Troy Murray, a former Chicago Blackhawks center and longtime team broadcaster, has died at the age of 63. The Blackhawks announced his passing on Saturday, March 7, 2026, though they did not specify the location of his death. Murray, known affectionately as "Muzz," was diagnosed with cancer in August 2021 and underwent chemotherapy treatments. He continued to work on Blackhawks broadcasts at a reduced capacity before stepping away entirely during the 2025-26 season. Murray’s career with the Blackhawks spanned 12 seasons, during which he became a respected leader on and off the ice. He played a pivotal role in the team’s 1996 Stanley Cup victory while with the Colorado Avalanche, marking the end of his NHL playing career. After a brief stint with the International Hockey League’s Chicago Wolves, Murray transitioned into broadcasting in 1998, becoming a staple of Blackhawks television coverage. He also served as president of the Blackhawks alumni association, further cementing his ties to the organization. Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz expressed deep sorrow over Murray’s death, calling him "the epitome of a Blackhawk" for his enduring impact on the team over 45 years. Wirtz highlighted Murray’s resilience during his battle with cancer, noting that "Troy didn’t have any ‘give up’ in him." The team emphasized that Murray’s legacy would live on through the spirit he inspired within the organization. Murray’s NHL career was marked by both offensive and defensive excellence. Drafted by the Blackhawks in the third round of the 1980 NHL Draft, he made his debut as a 19-year-old in the 1981-82 season.#stanley_cup #chicago_blackhawks #troy_murray #danny_wirtz #frank_j_selke_trophy
