Gregory Campbell Contending for the Masterton Trophy

Mar 30, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Flyers center Claude Giroux (28) and Boston Bruins center Gregory Campbell (11) battle after face-off during the second period at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Campbell in Running for Honorable Award

There are many Boston Bruins‘ players who truly respect the game of hockey, putting forth a complete, determined effort day in, day out.

Nevertheless, one skater in particular stands out from the group.

Gregory Campbell, the Bruins’ gritty center, will be recognized for his embodiment of this hockey ideal, currently standing as a nominee for the Masterton Trophy.

According to Bruins official website, the Masterton Trophy is dished out to a player who demonstrates “the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.”

Campbell fought through misfortunate coming into this season, healing from a broken leg suffered in the second period of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final versus the Pittsburgh Penguins.  Even though he broke his leg during a shorthanded spell, Campbell stayed on the ice for 47 seconds of Penguin power play time, braving the elements of extreme pain in a noble act that put his team first.

The Bruins were ultimately able to kill off the Penguins’ advantage with Campbell’s bold efforts.

"“Gregory Campbell’s entire hockey career has been about perseverance, dedication to hockey and paying the highest level of respect to the game he loves so much,” said Joe Haggerty, on duty as chairman of the  Professional Hockey Writers Association’s Boston chapter. “The image of Campbell gritting his way through excruciating pain to finish a penalty kill shift with a broken leg during last year’s conference final is one nobody will soon forget. It’s also the perfect example of Campbell’s dedication to his team, selflessness and willingness to give every last ounce he has to fully compete. That doesn’t even include Campbell’s heavy involvement in the community, including delivering pies to Boston homeless shelters on Thanksgiving morning each year. The Boston Chapter of the PHWA is proud to nominate Gregory Campbell for this season’s Masterton Trophy.”"

In this year’s 2013-2014 NHL season, Campbell has tallied seven goals and 12 assists, while totaling a +1 plus-minus ratio. He has been instrumental in dictating the Bruins physical play. Despite his status on a lower line, Campbell always finds a way to contribute whenever possible.

Congratulations and good luck to him.