History
Named in honor of the Minnesota North Stars' center who died in 1968 of head injuries suffered during a game, this trophy was donated by the Professional Hockey Writers' Association.
It is awarded annually to the NHL player "who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey," as chosen by a vote of PHWA members.
The PHWA also makes a contribution to the Bill Masterton Scholarship Fund in the name of the trophy winner.
