Hayes dealt with injuries all season, including two abdominal surgeries before the season and another procedure in January. The Philadelphia Flyers forward dedicated this season to his brother,
Jimmy Hayes
, a former NHL player who died Aug. 23. Hayes scored 31 points (10 goals, 21 assists) in 48 games, including 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) in 28 games after returning to the lineup in March. The 30-year-old also took on more of a leadership role after Flyers captain Claude Giroux was traded to the Florida Panthers on March 19.
A first-time finalist, Hayes would be the second straight Flyers player to win the award after forward Oskar Lindblom did so last season.
"It's an individual award but it's not possible without my family, my teammates, my coaches, this organization, players around the League, the fans in Philly," Hayes said. "It's insane the support that I've received over these last couple months. I truly am grateful for everyone that's tried to reach out and help me and support me and my family. It just shows what type of community this hockey world is. We go to battle each day with one another but the messages, the donations, the support that I've received has been tremendous."
Price had offseason knee surgery that was expected to keep him sidelined 10-12 weeks. The Montreal Canadiens goalie experienced setbacks that had him question whether his playing career was over. He also entered the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program in October for substance use.
The 34-year-old played his first game of the season April 15 and played five games, making 37 saves in a 10-2 win against the Florida Panthers in Montreal's final game of the season April 29. A first-time finalist, Price would be the sixth Canadiens player to win the award and first since forward Max Pacioretty in 2011-12. Price would be the first goalie to win the award since Lehner.