NICK SUZUKI SHINES AS HE EARNS NOMINATION FOR THE PRESTIGIOUS KING CLANCY MEMORIAL TROPHY

Montreal, QC – May 29, 2025 — Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki continues to make waves both on and off the ice, as he has officially been nominated for the esteemed King Clancy Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the NHL player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a significant humanitarian contribution to his community.

The 25-year-old forward, who has become the face of the franchise since being named captain in 2022, is being recognized for his outstanding work in the Montreal community, particularly with youth empowerment initiatives and mental health awareness programs.

Suzuki’s nomination is a testament to his evolving leadership role within the Canadiens organization and his genuine passion for making a difference.

“Nick has been a pillar of strength and integrity for our team,” said Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes. “What he’s done for this city goes far beyond hockey. He represents everything the King Clancy Trophy stands for.”

Suzuki’s outreach efforts have included founding “Suzuki’s Circle,” a youth mentorship program in collaboration with Montreal-area schools, aimed at helping at-risk youth develop confidence, life skills, and leadership abilities.

The program features monthly workshops hosted by Suzuki and local professionals, focusing on mental health support, academic development, and personal growth.

In addition, Suzuki has been an ambassador for Bell Let’s Talk Day, using his platform to openly discuss his own experiences with pressure and anxiety in professional sports. His vulnerability has helped reduce the stigma around mental health in the hockey community.

“It’s an incredible honor to be nominated,” Suzuki said in a statement. “I’ve always believed that being a hockey player comes with responsibility. I want to be someone the younger generation can look up to, not just for what I do on the ice but for how I treat people and give back.”

Teammates and coaches have praised Suzuki’s quiet determination and maturity. Assistant Coach Alex Burrows called him “a natural-born leader,” while teammate Cole Caufield said, “Nick’s the type of guy who makes everyone around him better—on the ice, in the locker room, and out in the city.”

The King Clancy Memorial Trophy winner will be announced during the 2025 NHL Awards this June in Las Vegas. Should Suzuki take home the honor, he would become the first Canadiens player to win the award since Saku Koivu in 2007.

Whether or not he captures the trophy, one thing is clear—Nick Suzuki has already won the hearts of Montrealers and set a standard for what it means to lead with purpose.