On Monday, The Professional Hockey Writers' Association revealed the names of the nominees for the 2009 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy from the five Atlantic Division clubs -- Blair Betts of the New York Rangers, Scott Clemmensen of New Jersey, Mark Streit of the New York Islanders, Mike Knuble of the Philadelphia Flyers and Mark Eaton of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Since coming to the Rangers on March 6, 2004, Blair Betts has been by far the Rangers best penalty killer. He played through shoulder, facial, and foot surgeries to become the League's most reliable fourth-line checker and penalty killer. Betts can win the big face-off in the defensive zone, is relentless in his pursuit of the puck and fearless in blocking shots. He is one of the best in the league at getting into shooting and passing lanes. One of the reasons the Rangers rank 1st in the league in killing penalties is Blair Betts. He is a very important player to this team. The Rangers would not be in the playoff mix today if the penalty kill wasn't successful. It is about time he is being recognized for his tremendous effort he brings game in and game out.
Blair Betts- Shorthanded Goal vs Anaheim Ducks
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