Lightning's 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).