Fox was second among defensemen with 47 points (five goals, 42 assists), one behind Tyson Barrie of the Edmonton Oilers. He was plus-19 in 55 games and led the Rangers in average ice time per game (24:42), more than three minutes more than defenseman Jacob Trouba, who was second (21:29).
"There's definitely too many people to thank just from growing up, youth hockey coaches, skill coaches, skating coaches, everyone who helped me get to this point," Fox said. "Of course, the Rangers organization just allowing me to play and giving me the opportunity, of course my teammates. It's an individual award, but without those guys none of it's possible."
Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche was second and Victor Hedman of the Tampa Bay Lightning was third as the other finalists for the award, which was voted on by the Professional Hockey Writers Association before the Stanley Cup Playoffs began.
Fox led Rangers defensemen in power-play ice time per game (3:45) and shorthanded ice time per game (2:36). He scored 23 power-play points, second behind Hedman (24), had 102 blocked shots, and was third in takeaways (38).
"I think people knew I could be an offensive player, but I wanted to have a little more defensive responsibility," Fox said. "Obviously [I] got trusted this year with killing penalties and being out there in defensive situations a little bit more, I think it just helped me. I think I just tried to play well game in and game out and help the team win. I think when you do that, personal success comes from that.
"I think the next step is team success. Being a Ranger is one of the best organizations in the League. We've got a lot of young pieces, and I think just having team success will benefit me and benefit everyone. That's the next step."
Fox said he received congratulations from David Quinn, who was fired as Rangers coach May 12 and replaced by Gerard Gallant, who was hired June 16.
"Of course, coaching staff, management, everyone involved is helpful in where I'm at and obviously giving me the opportunity to play and showcase what I can do," Fox said. "It's important for any player. I think Coach Quinn trusted me, and I'm grateful for that."
