Panthers C Aleksander Barkov repeats as Selke winner

For the second consecutive year and third time in five seasons, Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov on Monday was named the Selke Trophy winner as the NHL’s best defensive forward.
Barkov, 29, who also won the award for the 2020-21 season, received 96 first-place votes and recorded 1,363 points to beat out Panthers teammate Sam Reinhart (837 points). Barkov appeared on 173 of the 191 ballots.
Tampa Bay Lightning forward Anthony Cirelli finished third with 828 points.
Barkov was also announced Monday as the winner of the King Clancy Memorial Trophy for his leadership and contribution to the community. He was presented both trophies at the Joe DiMaggio’s Children’s Hospital in Hollywood, Fla.
“Very surprised,” Barkov said of the Selke. “I was not expecting it at all. When they brought in another trophy, it was pretty overwhelming for me. I am truly honored by that award.”
Barkov recorded 71 points (20 goals, 51 assists) in 67 games this season. He also won 56.5 percent of faceoffs during the 2024-25 campaign. He recorded 54 blocks and 34 takeaways during the regular season.
He has recorded 17 points (six goals, 11 assists) and 16 blocks in 17 postseason games, leading the defending champion Panthers to their second consecutive Stanley Cup Final. He’s winning 57.9 percent of his faceoffs in the playoffs.