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There is not a more "journeyman" player on the Pittsburgh Penguins than forward Boko Imama.
And he is now a National Hockey League award nominee.
On Wednesday, the Pittsburgh chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA) selected Imama as the 2024-25 team nominee for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, which is awarded annually from the pool of team nominees to the NHL player who "best exemplifies the qualities of perserverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey."
Last season's nominee for the Penguins was captain Sidney Crosby, while defenseman Kris Letang - a four-time team nominee - won the Masterton Trophy in 2023 after some personal setbacks, including the passing of his father and suffering his second stroke.
Imama - a native of Montreal born to parents who immigrated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo - was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 6th round (180th overall) of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. He has made his rounds through several NHL organizations, including Tampa Bay, the Los Angeles Kings, the Arizona Coyotes, the Ottawa Senators, and the Penguins.
He made his NHL debut with the Coyotes during the 2021-22 season, appearing in just four games and registering one goal. Imama was back and forth between the NHL and AHL for the next several seasons - totaling 15 NHL games combined - until he was finally recalled by Pittsburgh for good mid-season in 2024-25. In 16 NHL games with the Penguins this season, Imama - an enforcer - has one goal and 30 penalty minutes.
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'All The Guys Love Him': New Forward Energizes Penguins' Locker RoomForward Boko Imama has played in just four games with the Penguins, and he's already making an impression on his teammates. Recently, he was also dealt a season-ending setback, as biceps surgery will keep him out 4-6 months.
Imama's on-ice demeanor and perserverance is tangible. But his intangibles, dedication, and positive energy are what has endeared him to teammates and the organization, and they were the primary factors behind the nomination. His teammates have attested to that throughout the season.
"In the room, he's one of the best guys," forward Blake Lizotte said. "I've known him for a while. Any room he's in, he lights up, and all the guys love him. So, it's great to have him here."
Of the Masterton nominees, three finalists will be chosen at a later date.
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