Okposo, Skinner, Tuch named finalists for 2021-22 Rick Martin Award

The final round of voting for the 2021-22 Rick Martin Memorial Award is now live.
The finalists for the "The Rico," which is presented annually to the player whom fans believe best embodies what it means to be a Buffalo Sabre, (in alphabetical order) are:
Click here to vote now.

These three players had the most votes after the first round of voting closed Sunday.
Fans are encouraged to visit Sabres.com/RicoVote and cast their ballot for the player they believe best demonstrates on-ice excellence, resiliency, and a dedication to the community.
Here is a little bit more on each finalist:

Kyle Okposo

This season, Okposo has hit the 20-goal plateau for the first time as a Sabre and his putting together his best offensive season since 2017-18.
He played in his 900th NHL game on April 5 and is currently tied for 58th in the NHL for games played among active players.
As an alternate captain, he's helped usher in a new culture in the locker room and instill the messages of coach Don Granato.
After opening night, he penned a letter to the fans, thanking them for the support they showed during that game.
"I know the opportunity we have here. I made Buffalo my full-time home three years ago," he said. "My family and I spend summers exploring the area and getting to know people around town. My kids have grown up here. This Minnesota guy can even call himself a Bills fan now. I know how much what we do means to you."
Following Rick Jeanneret's banner night, Okposo presented Buffalo's Hall of Fame announcer with the team sword:

Jeff Skinner

Following a season in which he produced the lowest offensive totals of his career, Skinner has bounced back with one of his best seasons. He's currently second on the team with 58 points (31+27).
He's scored 30 goals for the fifth time and is on pace for 61 points, which would be the third-best point total of his career.
Skinner, along with broadcasters Dan Dunleavy and Martin Biron, participated in Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center's Bald For Bucks initiative this year and had his head shaved as part of the fundraising effort.

He donated $53 for every $50 donation through the month of March, up to $53,000. Thanks to his contribution, the Buffalo Sabres Foundation was able to raise over $105,000 for Roswell Park.

Alex Tuch

When Tuch arrived in Buffalo following a trade with Vegas in November, he was still recovering from offseason shoulder surgery and wouldn't make his debut until December 29.
The Baldwinsville, N.Y. grew up a Sabres fans and worked to ingrain himself into the community almost immediately. He visited those participating in the 11-Day Power Play, which raised over $2.1 million for charity during his first month with the team and has quickly become a fan favorite.

In 46 games, Tuch has posted 11 goals and 25 assists and recently played in his 300th NHL game.
Polls close on April 23 at 11:59 p.m. Cast your vote now.
The award is presented by the Sabres' Gold Ring Partners: KeyBank, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and LECOM.