David Backes is the Bruins nominee for the Masterton trophy this season. Perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey are in Backes’ blood.
Perseverance - Earlier this season, Backes underwent surgery to remove part of his colon after suffering a bad case of diverticulitis. He was back on the ice in no time, recovering faster than was expected. Later this season, he also suffered a laceration to his leg after colliding with Tampa Bay forward, Yanni Gourde. This season, Backes has missed more games than he has in his whole career.
Sportsmanship - Backes is one of the most sportsmanlike players in the game.