With the regular season winding down, the NHL announced its teams' nominees for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy, which is awarded to "the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community." Veteran defenseman Connor Murphy is the Chicago Blackhawks' nominee for the 2023-24 season.
This marks the third consecutive season of Murphy being the Blackhawks' nominee.
Serving as an alternate captain on a rebuilding team, Murphy has helped guide Blackhawks' youngsters on and off the ice as they adjust to the NHL. His numbers don't jump off the score sheet, but the Blackhawks value his leadership qualities.
Off the ice, Murphy is active in the Chicagoland community. Throughout this season, the 31-year-old made monthly visits to the city's police and fire stations and provided lunch for the first responders. Murphy also recognized those who went above and beyond with personalized experiences at Blackhawks games.
Additionally, Murphy has volunteered at a local children's hospital alongside Blackhawks teammates and given his time — and an air hockey table — to the Ronald McDonald House.
Murphy looks to become the first Blackhawks player to win the King Clancy Memorial Trophy since its inception in 1988.
The King Clancy Memorial Trophy winner will be revealed when the NHL hosts its awards show in late June.
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