Fans of the Buffalo Sabres decided to make Kyle Okposo the recipient of the 2021-22 Rick Martin Memorial Award and rightfully so.
The Buffalo Sabres faced a season of adversity that turned into one of resilience as they steamrolled throughout the final two months of what became a return to respectability. Looking like a team with no direction or identity following a six-game losing streak in February, the Sabres transformed into one of the NHL’s more exciting franchises in March and April.
At the forefront of the team’s turnaround was grizzled veteran Kyle Okposo, who simultaneously turned his aging career around. After two subpar seasons, Okposo looked like a player far past his prime. But his turnaround this past season proved the Don Granato Effect didn’t just pertain to young players.
Buffalo Sabres forward Kyle Okposo deserving of the Rick Martin Award
Besides showing on-ice excellence, the Rick Martin Memorial Award goes to the player fans believe showed the most resiliency and dedication to the community. And having led a previously down-and-out bunch to 16 wins in March and April, over the likes of a dozen NHL playoff contenders, no one deserved the award more than Okposo.
A vocal leader in the locker room, the 34-year-old was the first player to welcome new Sabres to the organization. And he was also the hardest worker whether in the weight room or on the ice for a routine practice.
He was a motivating figure to one of the NHL’s youngest franchises. His leadership contributed directly to the team’s turnaround, something that will continue when the team takes the ice again in October.
And Okposo may not be finished collecting hardware. He is the Pro Hockey Writers Association’s (PHWA) nominee for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy. An award that goes to the player that best displays sportsmanship, dedication, and perseverance.