Arizona Coyotes goaltender Connor Ingram, who sought help for obsessive compulsive disorder and depression in 2021, was named winner of the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy on Wednesday.
The award is given to the NHL player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.
Ingram was close to retiring due to his issues before seeking help from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance program in January of 2021, when he was with the Nashville Predators.
“I think this is a job that not a lot of people get to do, and I put 22 years of my life into it and thought I might as well keep going at this point,” the 27-year-old Ingram said Wednesday. “Lucky for me, I got a shot in Nashville and I got a shot in Arizona to keep it going, so I’ll be forever grateful to hockey and the hockey world for helping me through it.”
Ingram reached the NHL with the Predators in the 2021-22 season and played in three regular-season games and four playoff contests for Nashville.
The Coyotes claimed Ingram off waivers from the Predators shortly before the start of the 2022-23 season and he has made 74 starts over the past two seasons, compiling a 3.08 goals-against average with a 29-34-11 record and seven shutouts.
Ingram tied for the NHL lead with six shutouts this season in 50 appearances (48 starts). He went 23-21-3 with a 2.91 GAA.
The Coyotes are relocating to Utah for the 2024-25 season so there will be some changes for Ingram. He said he stays away from situations that may prompt a flare-up in his condition and that he will battle it for the rest of his life.
“Connor’s journey through adversity and his unwavering commitment to the game of hockey truly embodies the essence of the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy,” Utah general manager Bill Armstrong said. “Since his return, Connor has not only excelled on the ice but has emerged as an inspiration to hockey players across the globe as he continues to tell his story and emphasize the importance of seeking support during life’s darkest moments.”
Carolina Hurricanes goalkeeper Frederick Andersen, who dealt with blood clotting issues this season, and Calgary Flames defenseman Oliver Kylington, who missed 1 1/2 years for mental health reasons, were the other two finalists.
–Field Level Media
