NHL: Florida Panthers' Tkachuk Named Finalist for Hart Memorial Trophy

 SUNRISE, Fla. - The National Hockey League announced hat Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk has been named a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded annually ‘to the player adjudged to be the most valuable to his team.’ Tkachuk joins Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid and Boston Bruins forward David Pastrnak as a finalist.

“From Day 1, Matthew showcased not only his elite talent, but his equally unmatched compete level and character throughout his first season,” said General Manager Bill Zito.  “His work ethic, confidence and humility have continued to transform our locker room, redefining our thresholds for accountability, commitment, and leadership. He has raised the bar with regard to professionalism and has furthered our goal of making it a privilege to wear the Florida Panthers shield. We are thrilled for him to be nominated for this prestigious award.” 

 

In his first season in South Florida, Tkachuk posted his second consecutive 40-goal/100-point campaign leading the Cats with career highs in assists (69) and points (109). Tkachuk also paced the club in plus-minus rating (+29), even-strength points (72), power-play points (36), game-winning goals (6-tied) and shots on goal (322). His 1.38 points per game tied for third-best among NHL skaters with at least 75 games played, and he became the first NHL skater to finish a season with at least 100 points and 100 penalty minutes since Sidney Crosby did so in 2005-06. 

 

The 6-foot-2, 201-pound native of Scottsdale, Ariz., set club single-season records for multi-point games (34) and three-point performances (14) in 2022-23, tying the franchise record for four-point games (4). He factored on 37.8% of the Panthers total goals (109 of 288), the third-largest share in one season in club history.  At the 2023 NHL All-Star Game in Sunrise, his second career All-Star Game appearance, Tkachuk led all skaters with seven points (4-3-7) including a hat trick against the Metropolitan Division. Following his performance, he became the second skater in club history to be named All-Star Game MVP after Pavel Bure (2000). 

 Tkachuk is the third member of the Florida Panthers to be named a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy after John Vanbiesbrouck (1993-94) and Pavel Bure (1999-00). 

 

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