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Mark Messier Leadership Award: What It Is + Every Winner

The Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award honors the player who best exemplifies outstanding leadership on and off the ice and makes a notable contribution in his community. Unlike most NHL awards voted by media or players, this one is uniquely personal: Mark Messier himself makes the final selection. Introduced in the 2006-07 season, the award recognizes players who show exemplary leadership to their team, motivate teammates, and serve as positive role models through community involvement. Messier, a six-time Stanley Cup champion and Hall of Famer, was known for his captaincy with the Oilers and Rangers, including leading New York to its 1994 Cup after his famous "guarantee" in the Eastern Conference Final.

January 25, 2026

How the Award Works

The selection process is straightforward but carries unique weight because Messier personally chooses the winner:

Selection Process:

Mark Messier solicits recommendations from teams and NHL
Reviews each candidate's on-ice leadership and community work
Makes final choice based on complete player evaluation
Presented annually at NHL Awards show

Criteria Considered:

Captain or alternate captain status typically expected
On-ice leadership and teammate motivation
Community involvement and charitable work
Positive role model both in and outside hockey
Impact on team culture and success

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Recent Winners

Recent winners highlight the award's focus on captains and core leaders who combine on-ice influence with significant charity and community programs:

2024-25: Alex Ovechkin (Washington Capitals) Most recent winner for leadership and grassroots work promoting hockey.

2023-24: Jacob Trouba (New York Rangers) Rangers captain recognized for community involvement.

2022-23: Steven Stamkos (Tampa Bay Lightning) Lightning captain during back-to-back Cup era.

2021-22: Anze Kopitar (Los Angeles Kings) Kings captain with extensive community work.

2020-21: Patrice Bergeron (Boston Bruins) Bruins captain known for complete leadership.

Notable Past Winners

The award has consistently recognized hockey's most respected leaders:

Sidney Crosby (Pittsburgh Penguins) Multiple-time winner, Penguins captain and face of franchise.

Jonathan Toews (Chicago Blackhawks) Blackhawks captain during dynasty years.

Shea Weber (Nashville Predators/Montreal Canadiens) Respected leader across two franchises.

Zdeno Chara (Boston Bruins) Longtime Bruins captain, towering presence on and off ice.

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What Makes a Messier Award Winner

Winners typically share common characteristics that reflect Messier's own playing career:

On-Ice Leadership:

Captain or alternate captain
Voice in locker room
Leads by example in practice and games
Motivates teammates during adversity
Commands respect from peers

Community Impact:

Established charitable foundations
Regular hospital visits
Youth hockey programs
Local community engagement
National or international initiatives

Role Model Status:

Professional conduct
Media accessibility
Fan interaction
Representing sport positively
Mentoring younger players

Why This Award Is Different

Unlike other NHL awards, the Mark Messier Leadership Award carries a personal touch that makes it unique in professional sports. Messier himself evaluates candidates, drawing on his own experience as one of hockey's greatest leaders.

This means winners aren't just statistically dominant or media-friendly. They're players Messier himself would want in the foxhole, the guys who make everyone around them better through example and effort.

The award recognizes that leadership extends beyond the rink. It's about using your platform as an NHL player to make a positive impact in your community and serve as a role model for young fans.

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