While the Stanley Cup tournament proceeds, the Caps and Caps fans can take pride and pleasure in seeing some of their own recognized for their accomplishments this season – accomplishments that suggest there are great things ahead for this franchise…
Nicklas Backstrom – Calder Memorial Trophy Finalist (rookie of the year)
Alexander Ovechkin – Hart Memorial Trophy Finalist (most valuable player), Lester B. Pearson Award Finalist (outstanding player), Art Ross Trophy winner (top scorer), Maurice Richard Trophy winner (top goal scorer)
Bruce Boudreau – Jack Adams Award Finalist (top coach)
Quintin Laing – Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy nominee (perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey)
Mike Green -- Although there is no memorial award for the achievement (call it the Ray Bourque award (410 career goals) or the Paul Coffey Award (48 goals in a single season), Green led all NHL defensemen in goals scored.
Karl Alzner -- Four Broncos Memorial Trophy (WHL Player of the Year), Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy (WHL Defenseman of the Year), WHL nominee for CHL Player of the Year
The disappointment of a season ended too early can be soothed somewhat by the promise for the future that such recognition suggests. Congratulations to all.
