Perunovich, a defenseman, had 40 points (six goals, 34 assists) in 23 games with the University of Minnesota Duluth this season. He became the first defenseman to lead his conference in scoring, recording 32 points (four goals, 28 assists) in 24 National Collegiate Hockey Conference games. He was also named First Team All-NCHC for the third straight season.
Perunovich is one of 10 candidates for the award. On April 2, the candidates will be narrowed down to three finalists. The winner of the Hobey Baker Award will be announced on April 10 at 5 p.m. on NHL Network.