NHL Announces 2024 Selke Trophy Finalists The NHL has named its three finalists for the Selke Trophy. Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Auston Matthews and Carolina Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal are all in the running for the award. The Selke Trophy is given "to the forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game." And Professional Hockey Writers Association members will decide who wins this year's Selke Trophy. Barkov, 28, had another excellent season for the Panthers, posting 23 goals, 80 points, and a plus-33 rating. Besides making an impact offensively, he once again was one of the NHL's top defensive forwards in 2023-24. He was particularly impressive at the dot, winning 57.3% of his draws. Aleksander Barkov [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA0OTY5NDkwMTEzMzczOTQ4/usatsi_22050669_168400847_lowres.jpg] Aleksander Barkov Barkov is no stranger to the Selke Trophy. He became the first Panthers forward to win the award in 2020-21. He also finished third in the voting for the Selke in 2021-22. Matthews, 26, is understandably praised heavily for his offensive ability. He led the NHL in goals this season with 69 and finished with an impressive 107 points. However, he truly stepped up his defensive game this season as well. His 85 takeaways and 93 blocks were the second most among NHL forwards. Auston Matthews [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA2MjAzNDYxODY2MzY2MDUx/usatsi_23091735.jpg] Auston Matthews This is Matthews' first time being a finalist for the Selke. Given how strongly he played defensively this season, it's fair to say he has a good chance of winning. Staal, 35, posted 10 goals and 30 points in 80 games this season with the Hurricanes. While he did not put up high offensive totals like Barkov and Matthews, his defensive play was elite. He was the heart of the Hurricanes' top penalty-killing unit, as he led all Canes forwards in shorthanded ice time. He also won an impressive 58.1% of his faceoffs. Jordan Staal and Auston Matthews battle for position [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA1NDEwNTU5NjMyMzUyNzY2/usatsi_22857522.jpg] Jordan Staal and Auston Matthews battle for position Staal was nominated for the Selke Trophy back in 2009-10 when he was with the Pittsburgh Penguins. The 14-year gap between his Selke Trophy nominations is now the longest for a voted award in NHL history.
