The Bob Nystrom Award was created in 1991 to recognize an Islanders player that exemplifies leadership, hustle and dedication. These were the same ideals that former Islanders Hall of Fame winger, Bob Nystrom represented every time he stepped on the ice or in the community.
The honor is dedicated to "Mr. Islander" for everything he did and continues to do for the Islanders organization. Including the postseason, Nystrom played 1,057 games for the Islanders from 1972 through 1986, but is most remembered for the 1980 Stanley Cup clinching overtime goal.
