Lady Byng Trophy Finalists Announced
The National Hockey League has named Montreal Canadiens forward Cole Caufield, Ottawa Senators defenseman Jake Sanderson, and Los Angeles Kings center Anze Kopitar as the three finalists for the 2025-26 Lady Byng Memorial Trophy. The award is presented annually to the player who best combines sportsmanship, gentlemanly conduct, and a high standard of playing ability.
Caufield, 25, recorded 38 goals and 45 assists for 83 points in 82 games this season while serving just six minutes in penalties. The American winger has been a consistent offensive threat for the Canadiens and is known for his clean, skilled play. This marks his first nomination for the Lady Byng Trophy.
Sanderson, 23, tallied 12 goals and 40 assists for 52 points in 79 games, with only four penalty minutes. The young defenseman has emerged as a key player for the Senators, demonstrating both offensive contributions and disciplined defensive play. This is also his first Lady Byng nomination.
Kopitar, 38, continues to be a model of consistency and sportsmanship. He posted 22 goals and 48 assists for 70 points in 81 games, accumulating just eight penalty minutes. The Slovenian center has won the Lady Byng Trophy twice before, in 2015-16 and 2022-23, and is a perennial candidate for the award. His career-low penalty minutes per game average is a testament to his clean style.
The winner will be announced during the NHL Awards ceremony in June. The Lady Byng Trophy is voted on by members of the Professional Hockey Writers' Association.
