Alex Ovechkin, John Tavares, Shea Weber named finalists for Messier Award

Forwards Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals and John Tavares of the New York Islanders and defenseman Shea Weber of the Nashville Predators are the finalists for the 2015-16 Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award, the league announced Wednesday.

The award is presented "to the player who exemplifies great leadership qualities to his team, on and off the ice, during the regular season."

Messier solicits suggestions from club and league personnel as well as NHL fans to compile a list of potential candidates for the award before making the decision.

Ovechkin, Washington's captain since January 2010, reached the 50-goal milestone for the seventh time in his career this season to power the team to the Presidents' Trophy as well as a franchise-record 56 wins.

Tavares led the Islanders to their second consecutive 100-point season in 2015-16. He also continued his Teammates Program, which has provided tickets and VIP game experiences for sick and underprivileged children.

Weber, Nashville's captain since 2010-11, reached the 20-goal and 50-point milestones for the third time to guide the Predators to their second straight playoff berth. He also is a leader with several charitable organizations in Nashville and his hometown.

The winner will be announced June 22, during the 2016 NHL Awards in Las Vegas.