The National Hockey League has announced the finalists for the 2007-08 Vezina Trophy, awarded to the league's top goaltender.
The nominees include Martin Brodeur of the New Jersey Devils, Evgeni Nabokov of the San Jose Sharks and Henrik Lundqvist of the New York Rangers.
Brodeur will be trying to win his fifth career Vezina. This season he posted a record of 44-27-6 with 2.17 goals-against-average and a .920 save percentage. Brodeur became just the second goaltender in NHL history to reach 500 wins, following Patrick Roy.
"He had an outstanding year," Devils GM Lou Lamoriello told The Canadian Press. "His selection for one of these three spots is without question deserving."
"I know we don't take him for granted because we know what he is and who he is and what he's done for our organization."
This is Nabokov's first nomination for the Vezina. Nabokov's 46 wins this season was just two shy of Brodeur's record of 48, posted last season. Nabokov was third in the league with a 2.14 goals-against-average and tied for third with six shutouts.
"I would go with Nabby," Dallas Stars goalie Marty Turco told The Canadian Press. "He was pretty solid all year long. I've seen him a lot, more than probably most people. He's my pick and I think he'll win."
Lundqvist posted a record of 37-24-10 for the Rangers this year, while appearing in 72 games. Lundqvist also notched a 2.23 goals-against-average and a .912 save percentage. Lundqvist's 10 shutouts were the most in the NHL this season.
The NHL hands out its awards June 12th.
