Tampa Bay Lightning forward Steven Stamkos named 2023 Mark Messier Leadership Award winner

Tampa Bay Lightning forward Steven Stamkos has been named the winner of the Mark Messier Leadership Award.

The award is given annually to an individual who leads by positive example through on-ice performance, motivation of team members and a dedication to community activities and charitable causes.

Stamkos, 33, has served as captain of the Lightning since 2014, winning the Stanley Cup with the team in 2020 and 2021. He also led the team to the Stanley Cup Final in 2015 and 2022.

The Markham, Ont. product collected 34 goals and 84 points in 81 games with the Lightning during the 2022–23 regular season. He added two goals and four points in six games as the Lightning lost to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Los Angeles Kings forward Anze Kopitar previously won the Mark Messier Leadership Award in 2022. Stamkos is the second Lightning player to win the award, joining Vincent Lecavalier (who won back in February 2007, when the award was being given out on a monthly basis).

The Lightning originally selected Stamkos with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 NHL Draft. The following year, the Lightning picked franchise cornerstone Victor Hedman No. 2 overall. Both players have been instrumental to Tampa Bay’s continued success over the last decade.

Stamkos previously won the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy with the Lightning in 2010 and 2012. He also helped Team Canada win gold at the World Cup of Hockey in 2016.

Stamkos has collected 515 goals and 1,056 points in 1,003 career games. He’s added 45 goals and 95 points in 123 playoff contests, including 18 in 23 games during Tampa Bay’s run to the 2021 Stanley Cup.