Gophers’ LaFontaine nominated for 2021 Hobey Baker Award

Jack LaFontaine, goalie for the No. 2-ranked Gophers men’s hockey program, has been nominated for the 2021 Hobey Baker Award, the organization announced Monday.

Fans can vote for the award now through March 7. The top 10 finalists will then be announced on March 17, the Hobey Hat Trick on April 1 and then the winner of the award on April 9.

The Mississauga, Ontario native ranks among the best in college hockey in nearly every goaltending statistic this season. He boasts a 13-3-0 record, 1.28 GAA and .948 save percentage.

Criteria for the Hobey Baker Award include candidates exhibiting the exceptional character traits of the award’s namesake, such as strength of character on and off the ice, contributing to the integrity of the team and displaying outstanding skills in all phases of the game. Scholastic achievement and sportsmanship also factor in.

If he’s named a finalist, LaFontaine would be just the third Gophers goalie in the award’s 40-year history to earn the distinction.