Photo: Robb Carr/Getty Images

On Monday the Washington Chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association announced the nomination of defenseman Zdeno Chara for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded for perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.

The Washington chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association has nominated Zdeno Chara for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, which is awarded for perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey. #Caps

— Tarik El-Bashir (@Tarik_ElBashir) May 10, 2021

The 43-year-old signed a one-year contract with the Capitals on December 30 to play a regular role, after the Boston Bruins did not guarantee he would be a regular in their lineup, with the desire to start giving younger players more opportunity.

The PHWA has announced 2020-21 Masterton Trophy Nominees. #NHLAwards pic.twitter.com/de8IXCgK2y

— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) May 10, 2021

Chara was a key to the Capitals defense this season as he averaged 18:17 time on ice per game, including 2:43 on the penalty kill (which led all of the team’s defensemen).

He has averaged 5.22 hits-per-60 minutes, 4.01 blocked shots-per-60 minutes, 1.94 giveaways-per-60 minutes, and 0.85 takeaways-per-60 minutes. Chara also has posted with a 49.08% Corsi-for percentage and a 51.64% expected goals-for percentage at five-on-five.

Laviollete re: Chara for Masterton: “I think that it’s a terrific choice for the Masterton, and somebody who’s well deserved.” Laviolette said he and Chara live on same island (Longboat Key) in Florida during offseason. He met with him before season started and was very impressed

— NoVa Caps (@NoVa_Caps) May 10, 2021

Chara has recorded two goals, nine points, and a +4 rating in 54 games this season.

By Harrison Brown