Each season, the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA) announces their nominees for the Bill Masterton Trophy, awarded annually to the National Hockey League (NHL) player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.
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The award is named after the late Bill Masterton, who sadly passed away due to massive head trauma following a hit during a game in 1968. All 32 local chapters of the PHWA submit a nomination for their respective teams.
Dillon Announced as 2026 Nominee
Today, the New Jersey Chapter of the PHWA announced that New Jersey Devils‘ defenseman Brenden Dillon is their 2026 nominee:
“After a frightening neck injury in Game 1 of the 2025 playoffs that required artificial disc replacement surgery, Brenden Dillon leaned on advice from NHL and UFC athletes during a rigorous offseason recovery. He returned stronger in 2025-26, anchoring the Devils’ blue line with noticeably improved defensive play while continuing to sacrifice his body for the betterment of his team. A true warrior, the 35-year-old veteran reached his 1,000th NHL game on December 1, 2025. In that milestone Dillon suffered a scary injury, however, briefly returned for shifts in an unthinkable effort, and earned widespread respect from coaches and peers for his toughness—despite missing the third period as a precaution. On and off the ice, Dillon is a vocal leader who holds teammates accountable, encourages them, constantly sticks up for them, and mentors younger players, inspiring the entire Devils locker room with his selfless commitment and dedication to the game.”
Dillon has 15 points (3G, 12A) in 78 games this season, in addition to 97 blocked shots and 193 hits. The top three vote-getters will be designated as finalists, and then a winner will be selected at the NHL Awards event in June.
