Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Oliver Ekman-Larsson has been named as the nominee for the Bill Masterton Trophy by the Toronto chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association.

The trophy is awarded annually to the player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey. Ekman-Larsson is amid a resurgent campaign, recording eight goals and 38 points in 73 games this season. During a difficult season for the Maple Leafs, where the team will miss the playoffs for the first time in a decade, Ekman-Larsson has operated as the team’s best defenceman. Ekman-Larsson participated at the Olympics for Sweden, where he won a role among a crowded blue line.

Ekman-Larsson has been lauded for his toughness, physicality and veteran leadership throughout the season, where he’s often operated as the power play quarterback.

“I always came into the season wanting to play good for the Leafs and for my teammates here and give me a chance to be on that team,” Ekman-Larsson said in January about being named to Sweden’s Olympic team. “So I’m lying if I’m saying I haven’t really thought about it, to be honest with you. But very proud of myself of being named and getting a chance. With that being said, my teammates and the organization have been able to help me out.”

Ekman-Larsson only missed two games this season: one absence was due to roster management purposes, and the other was due to the birth of his child. He’s been a remarkably resilient player for the Maple Leafs, while excelling in all facets of the game. Ekman-Larsson was adamant that he wanted to remain with the Maple Leafs ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline, as the club begins a period of transition.

John Tavares was last year’s Maple Leafs nominee for the award. All 32 team nominees will be announced Wednesday, before the winner of the Bill Masterton Trophy is voted upon again by the Professional Hockey Writers Association.

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