Which NHL award honors the league's best defensive forward?

The Frank J. Selke Trophy honors the NHL forward who demonstrates the most skill in the defensive component of the game.

The award was first presented after the 1977–78 season, with Montreal Canadiens forward Bob Gainey as its inaugural winner. It is named for Frank J. Selke, a prominent general manager who led both the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens.

The winner is selected through voting by the Professional Hockey Writers’ Association after the regular season. The trophy is specifically for forwards, which distinguishes it from awards recognizing defensemen or overall defensive achievement. A common mix-up is the Lady Byng Trophy, which rewards sportsmanship and gentlemanly play, while the Bill Masterton Trophy recognizes perseverance and dedication to hockey.

Patrice Bergeron holds the record with six Selke wins. The award’s emphasis is not simply on blocked shots or penalty killing; it recognizes a forward’s broader defensive impact, including positioning, anticipation, puck pressure and responsibility in all situations.