Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Lappy named finalist for Masterton Trophy

The Flyers' Ian Laperriere was named one of the three finalists for the 2010-11 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy by the NHL on Tuesday. Laperriere joins goaltender Ray Emery of the Anaheim Ducks and forward Daymond Langkow as finalists for the award, which is given “to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.”

A $2,500 grant from the Professional Hockey Writers’ Association (PHWA) is awarded annually to the Bill Masterton Scholarship Fund, based in Bloomington, Minnesota, in the name of the Masterton Trophy winner.

Laperriere sustained a severe injury during the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs when he blocked a shot with his face against New Jersey and suffered a concussion and fractured orbital bone. He returned a little more than a month later to finish the Flyers' playoff run that ended two games short of a championship.

Laperriere attempted to return in training camp, but could not overcome his concussion-related symptoms and has been on the long-term injury list all season. Nevertheless, he has served the Flyers in several capacities, particularly as a mentor for young players in the organization.

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