Aleksander Barkov Makes History With Third Selke Trophy Ahead of Stanley Cup Final
Aleksander Barkov is having a remarkable year—and it just got even better. The Florida Panthers’ captain has been awarded the Frank J. Selke Trophy for the third time in his career, cementing his status as one of the NHL’s premier two-way forwards. The timing couldn’t be more poetic, with the announcement coming just days before Barkov leads his team into the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers.
The Selke Trophy, which honors the forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game, was earned by Barkov with 1,363 points in the final voting—surpassing teammate Sam Reinhart and veteran Brad Marchand. This marks Barkov’s second consecutive win (2023-24) and third overall, having first claimed the honor in 2020-21. He now joins an elite group that includes NHL greats like Pavel Datsyuk, Guy Carbonneau, and Jere Lehtinen, all three-time Selke recipients.
<strong>A True Leader On and Off the Ice</strong>
Full voting results for the Selke Trophy, won by Aleksander Barkov. #TimeToHunt #NHLAwards pic.twitter.com/z6BIjfTxqa
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) June 2, 2025
Barkov’s leadership goes beyond defensive stats. Florida’s deep playoff run has showcased his ability to elevate those around him. The Panthers’ success has been driven by their collective depth, but Barkov’s calm influence and stellar individual form continue to stand out. As if the Selke wasn’t enough, he was also honored with his first-ever King Clancy Memorial Trophy—awarded for leadership and humanitarian contribution—on the same day. The awards were presented to him by young visitors from Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital during practice, making the moment even more meaningful.
Reacting to the double surprise, Barkov remained humble: “Very surprised. 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.”
<strong>Elite Company, Lofty Standards</strong>
Only one player—Patrice Bergeron—has won more Selkes than Barkov, holding an NHL-record six. While Barkov is inching closer to that benchmark, his focus remains firmly on team goals. Even rival Leon Draisaitl acknowledged that Barkov’s presence on the ice shifts the entire dynamic of the game, calling him a game-changer on both ends of the rink.
As the Panthers prepare to face the Oilers, Barkov enters the Finals in peak form—awarded, respected, and locked in. He’s not only building a legacy but shaping what it means to be a complete NHL captain. Whether or not Florida lifts the Cup, Barkov has already carved out a historic 2025 for himself—and perhaps there’s still more to come.