Boyle, Stamkos highlight Masterton Trophy nominees

Each NHL club's nominee for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy was unveiled Tuesday.

The award is given out by the Professional Hockey Writers Association and recognizes the player "who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey."

This year's nominees include Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos, who returned with a vengeance after being limited to just 17 games last season with a knee injury. He's put up 86 points in 75 games - his most productive campaign since 2011-12, when he captured the Maurice Rocket Richard Trophy with 60 goals.

Among the other nominees is New Jersey Devils forward Brian Boyle, who was diagnosed with leukemia in September.

After missing the first month of the season, Boyle made a triumphant return to the lineup on Nov. 1. The 33-year-old was ultimately named an All-Star, replacing injured teammate Taylor Hall, and has posted 13 goals and 23 points in 62 games.

Here's the full list of nominees:

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