Patrick Kane, Chicago Blackhawks
Patrick Kane is a player that on the ice matches the qualities of the award, showing sportsmanship and high playing skill. In the lockout shortened season, Kane scored 23 goals in 47 games, which was the same number he hit in a full 82 game season in 2011-12. Kane also limited himself to only 8 penalty minutes, showing good restraint on the ice when playing. The fact that he spent over twenty minutes a game on the ice, makes the low penalty minute numbers even more impressive. Kane is known for his exuberant goal celebrations, but has never been known for taunting his opponents on the ice. As shown this season, Kane continues to establish himself as a leader on the ice and in the locker room for the Blackhawks.