Kopitar of Kings wins Lady Byng Trophy for gentlemanly conduct

NASHVILLE --Anze Kopitar of the Los Angeles Kings won the Lady Byng Trophy, which is awarded annually to the NHL player voted to best combine sportsmanship, gentlemanly conduct and ability, at the 2023 NHL Awards at Bridgestone Arena on Monday.

The 35-year-old center took two minor penalties all season and led the Kings with 74 points (28 goals, 46 assists) in 82 games. Kopitar, who was plus-20, led Los Angeles forwards in ice time (20:18), power-play ice time (3:01) and short-handed ice time per game (1:52).

His four penalty minutes were the fewest among the League's top 100 scorers.

"Obviously the organization from top to bottom starting with (Kings president) Luc (Robitaille) and (general manager) Rob (Blake) and the coaches and the staff that put the work in every day," Kopitar said in a video message. "This can not happen without my teammates. I love you guys and thank you for all of your support."

RELATED: [Lady Byng Memorial Trophy winners]

Kopitar, who was fourth in the NHL in face-off wins (899) and 14th in face-off percentage (55.9 percent; minimum 600 attempts), helped Los Angeles (47-25-10) qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the second straight season, finishing with its second-most wins and points totals (104) in a single season.

Kopitar also won the Lady Byng in 2015-16 and finished third in 2014-15.

"Last but not least, my family," Kopitar said. "My grandparents, my parents and most importantly, my wife and my two little kiddos. Thank you for your support. Always giving me the positive energy and attitude day in and day out and I couldn't have done it without you. I love you guys."

New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes and Tampa Bay Lightning center Brayden Point were the other finalists for the award, which was voted on by the Professional Hockey Writers Association prior to the start of the playoffs.

"Congratulations to Jack and Brayden for being nominated," Kopitar said. "Very well deserved and I'm sure you guys will win a bunch of these in the future."

List of Winners, Voting Results at 2023 NHL Awards