The trophy is presented annually to the NHL player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey. It is voted on by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association.

After leading the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup final last season — posting a 13-9 record during the playoffs with a 2.28 goals-against average and a .924 save percentage — Price had knee surgery in July to repair a torn meniscus. In October, the 34-year-old goalie entered the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program for 30 days to deal with substance-use issues.

Price’s knee surgery was originally expected to sideline him for eight weeks before he entered the player assistance program. Once he returned to the ice, Price had a number of setbacks.