Burns, who comes from a two-generation Canadian military family, has become known for his work with the United Heroes League and Folds of Honor to help veterans, active military members and military families of injured and deceased military personnel.
The winner of the Sports Humanitarian of the Year Award will be announced during a ceremony July 12 in Los Angeles, and will receive a $100,000 grant from ESPN to their qualified charity. The other finalists will receive $25,000 grants.
All proceeds of the awards show will benefit the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund at The V Foundation.
Last season, Burns was the recipient of the 2014-15 NHL Foundation Player Award, recognizing a player who applies the core values of hockey, commitment, perseverance and teamwork, to enrich the lives of people in his community.
Burns, who led the Sharks to the 2016 Stanley Cup Final for the first time, is also a finalist for the Norris Trophy, awarded by the NHL to the defenseman who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-around ability at the position. He had 27 goals and 48 assists during the regular season and 24 points (seven goals, 17 assists) in 24 games in the playoffs.
The winner will be announced at the 2016 NHL Awards in Las Vegas on June 22.
