What is the name of the trophy awarded to the NHL's most valuable player?

The trophy awarded to the NHL's most valuable player is the Hart Memorial Trophy. It is presented annually to the player judged most valuable to his team during the regular season, based on voting by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association.

The award was donated to the NHL in 1923 by Dr. David Hart, the father of former Montreal Canadiens general manager Cecil Hart. Frank Nighbor of the Ottawa Senators became the first recipient after the 1923–24 season. The trophy was originally known as the Hart Trophy and was renamed the Hart Memorial Trophy in 1960 after the original cup was retired.

The Hart recognizes regular-season value, so it is different from the Conn Smythe Trophy, which goes to the most valuable player during the Stanley Cup playoffs. It is also distinct from the Art Ross Trophy for regular-season scoring, the Norris Trophy for the best defenseman, and the Vezina Trophy for the best goaltender.

Wayne Gretzky holds the record for Hart wins with nine. Gordie Howe won six, while several other legendary players have won the award multiple times.