Alex Belzile, CH candidate for the Bill-Masterton trophy

UPDATE DAY

Quebecer Alex Belzile has worked very hard to reach the National Hockey League (NHL), and his efforts have been rewarded as he is the Montreal Canadiens' candidate for the Bill- Masterton.

The organization made the announcement on Monday morning. The 31-year-old right-winger could succeed goaltender Carey Price, who earned the honor last season for displaying perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to the game.

Due to the multiple injuries within the formation, Belzile was able to come with the Habs in the middle of the season. He was already off to an excellent start to the campaign with the Laval Rocket with 26 points in 31 games, and he was able to take his success to the next level.

The Saint-Éloi native scored six goals and eight assists for 14 points in 31 games with the big club. His first NHL goal on February 12 against the Edmonton Oilers was a big moment for him.

However, his season ended on April 1, when he suffered a broken bone. leg.

The former Rimouski Océanic spent seven years as a pro before getting his first call-up during the 2020 playoffs. He made a few stints in the season regularly with the CH during the following campaigns, without however being able to settle there.

The Rocket captain will become an unrestricted free agent this summer. This year, he earned the minimum salary in the NHL, $750,000.

For the Ottawa Senators, another skater from La Belle Province, Derick Brassard, is a candidate for the Bill- Masterton.