Ask anyone in and around the New Jersey Devils who their favorite person to chat with is, and most people will say Brendan Dillon.
He is a commanding presence off the ice and that is why so many people look to him as a leader.
As of Wednesday morning, the New Jersey chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association nominates a Devils defenseman for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy.
The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy is an annual award under the trusteeship of the Professional Hockey Writers Association and is given “to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.”
According to the United Views of the New Jersey chapter:
“After suffering a catastrophic neck injury in Game 1 of the 2025 playoffs that required artificial disc replacement surgery, Brendan Dillon relied on the advice of NHL and UFC athletes during a rigorous offseason recovery. He bounced back strong in 2025-26, and presented the Devils’ blue line with significantly improved defensive play while continuing to sacrifice his body for the well-being of his team. A true warrior, the 35-year-old The veteran reached his 1,000th NHL game on December 1, 2025. Dillon suffered a scary injury in that milestone, however, he came back for a shift in an unimaginable effort, and earned widespread respect from coaches and teammates for his tenacity – despite missing the third period as a precaution, Dillon is a vocal leader who holds teammates accountable, encouraging them. Stands up, and mentors younger players, inspiring the entire Devils locker room with his selfless commitment and dedication to the game.
On the ice, Dillon has been a mainstay partner for young Simon Nemec, who is completing his first year as an established NHLer, and where he has reached new heights.
Part of that success can be attributed to Dillon, who has been a steady presence next to Nemec on the ice, but also off the ice and in the locker room.
And he’s finally recovered from the summer, bouncing back from a season scare, and has been a consistent presence on the Devils blueline.
Voting on the 32 nominees for the Masterton Prize is now officially underway.
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