Detroit — Just returning from knee surgery once can be a long, painful and frustrating process for any athlete.
Forward Robby Fabbri has done it. And not just once. But, remarkably, three times, including when Fabbri returned to the lineup on January 4 after tearing his right ACL in March 2022.
The Detroit chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association has nominated Fabbri as the Red Wings’ candidate for the 2023 Masterton Memorial Trophy.
The award goes to the NHL player who best demonstrates perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.
Fabbri has endured even more this season.
Fabbri, 27, suffered a season-ending injury on March 8 (unspecified lower-body injury, but not an ACL), that coach Derek Lalonde said required a minor medical procedure. But Fabbri is expected to be ready for the beginning of September’s training camp.
In 28 games this season after returning, Fabbri had 16 points (seven goals, nine assists).
The Masterton winner will be announced on June 26 during the NHL Awards Show. The Wings have had two winners of the award: Steve Yzerman in 2003 and Brad Park in 1984.
ted.kulfan@detroitnews.com
Twitter: @tkulfan