Dale Tallon turned the Florida Panthers from perennial also-rans into second-round playoff hopefuls. Brian Campbell helped. Both are going to Las Vegas for their efforts.
The NHL has announced the three finalists for General Manager of the Year, and Tallon is on the list. He is joined by Nashville's David Poile and St. Louis' Doug Armstrong. Tallon traded for or signed 10 players last offseason, and the Panthers have become a group that can advance to the second round with a win over New Jersey tonight.
Campbell, one of the 10 players brought in by Tallon, played the most minutes in the NHL, was third in scoring among defensemen and took just three penalties all season. He is one of three finalists for the Lady Byng along with Edmonton's Jordan Eberle and the Islanders' Matt Moulson.
Meanwhile, Ottawa captain Daniel Alfredsson, Maple Leafs forward Joffrey Lupul and Canadiens left wing Max Pacioretty have been named finalists for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.
Detroit's Pavel Datsyuk, St. Louis' David Backes and Boston's Patrice Bergeron have been named the three finalists for the Selke Trophy.
The Selke, Masterton and Lady Byng winners are selected by the Professional Hockey Writers' Association. The Awards Show will be held June 20 in Las Vegas.
---John Vogl
