Bruins Score Hat Trick at NHL Awards Ceremony

First it was Blake Wheeler. Then Milan Lucic followed, Krejci was next; Kessel followed and then the three Bruins up for awards tonight in Las Vegas decided they'd like to win and be a part of a hat trick.

In what was an apparently emotional acceptance, Bruins goalie Tim Thomas thanked his family and his supporters for their encouragement throughout his long and travel-filled career. A visibly moved Thomas stated that he was used to "wondering if he'd make the roster, let alone win an award." Thomas' acceptance drew a large applause from the crowd of fellow NHL players and greats.

Then, in what was a surprise to me anyhow, Claude Julien captured the Jack Adams Trophy over St. Louis Blues coach Andy Murray and Sharks bench-boss Todd McLellan. A smiling Julien thanked Pat Burns for inspiring him along with Bruins brass, fans, and fellow coaches. Julien parted after a few words for his family in Quebec in French, and the Bruins were two-for-two in the awards they were nominated for.

With the Norris up next, the Bruins just needed a Chara victory to a perfect three-for-three in the awards category.

Despite the offensively explosive season had by Capitals defensemen and mohawk enthusiast, Mike Green, and the veteran leadership of Nicklas Lidstrom, the award went to the man known as Big Z.

For Chara, it was the first time he'd actually won the Norris Trophy and it was his third nomination. A honored Chara thanked his teammates, Bruins fans, and virtually every one within the Bruins coaching staff and front office. In his speech, he especially thanked his wife and newborn daughter for being his biggest supporters.

Chara also went out of his way to give a message of encouragement to the kids who, like him, have been the victim's of not making the team or being 'cut' off the roster. Chara, who provides a great example of fighting your way to the top had finally captured the trophy he rightfully deserves.

Now with these accomplishments going onto the shelves and into the resumes of these B's, it's time to move towards the ultimate goal and bring home the big one, The Stanley Cup.

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