Next up on the awards list is the Flyers player who has been deemed as demonstrating the most heart this season.
The Gene Hart Memorial Award was introduced during the 2006-07 season. It’s named after the long time announcer of the Flyers and it’s definition befits the man it’s was named for.
It is given annually to the Flyers player that demonstrates the most heart during the season. Winning the award in his first season, Kevin Hayes became the 13th player in franchise history to win the award.
After signing a seven-year contract with the team this offseason, Hayes has brought a welcoming and fun personality to the Flyers locker room. His endless nicknames for his teammates and on-ice commentary are just a few of the ways he has welcomed himself to Philadelphia.
He has become a favorite in the locker room and among the fan base as well. Signing a lengthy contract like that brings a large expectation along with it. And while it took a bit for Hayes to settle in on the ice, he immediately hit it off with his teammates.
His boisterous personality earned him the Funniest Player title as voted on by fans across the league. He backs things up on the ice as with his dedication to his craft.
Looking around the league, he is one of the best puck-handlers there is. That has been demonstrated numerous times, especially whilst shorthanded.
He has that in common with the last winner of the award. Sean Couturier has taken home this award the last two seasons. Shayne Gostisbehere, Jakub Voracek, and Claude Giroux have also won as well.
The award is voted on by official members of the Philadelphia Flyers Fan Club. Couturier is the only one to have won the award in back-to-back seasons before Hayes this year.