King Clancy Memorial Trophy – Pekka Rinne (2020-21)

Lore & Background

Pekka Rinne's journey from a late-round draft pick to a Vezina Trophy winner and franchise cornerstone is a testament to perseverance and dedication. Off the ice, he became synonymous with Nashville's charitable spirit, founding the 35 Fund to support local youth and animal welfare, and regularly visiting hospitals and schools. The King Clancy Trophy in 2020-21 recognized not just his on-ice leadership during a pandemic-shortened season, but his unwavering commitment to the community that embraced him. Rinne's impact extended beyond statistics; he was the emotional anchor of the Predators during their rise from expansion team to Stanley Cup contender. His humility and approachability made him a beloved figure in Music City, and the award cemented his legacy as a player who defined what it means to be a leader both in the locker room and in the wider world. The honor was a fitting capstone to a career that saw him become the franchise's all-time leader in wins, shutouts, and games played — but it also proved that his greatest saves weren't always on the ice.

In Their Own Story

The press conference was quiet, but Rinne's smile lit the room. He held the King Clancy Trophy, its silver surface catching the light. 'This means more than any save I've ever made,' he said, his Finnish accent soft. He thought of the kids at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, the dogs at the rescue he supported, the countless hours spent signing autographs. 'Hockey gave me a platform, but Nashville gave me a home.' The reporters nodded; they knew the stories. The trophy wasn't just an award—it was a thank-you from a city that loved him back.

Reader's Guide

The King Clancy Memorial Trophy was awarded to Pekka Rinne for the 2020-21 NHL season, recognizing his outstanding leadership and humanitarian contributions. This was a historic moment for the Nashville Predators, as Rinne became the first player in franchise history to win the award. The season itself was unusual, played largely without fans due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Rinne's impact off the ice remained constant. He had long been active in charitable work, including his '35 Fund' which supported youth hockey and animal welfare, and his efforts to connect with fans during the pandemic through virtual events and personal outreach — including surprise video calls to young fans stuck at home. The award highlighted Rinne's dual legacy: as the greatest goaltender in Predators history and as a community leader who used his platform for good. It remains a proud chapter in the team's history, symbolizing the bond between player and city — a bond forged in visits to hospital bedsides and rescue shelters, not just on Bridgestone Arena ice.

Did You Know?

• Pekka Rinne is the only Nashville Predators player to win the King Clancy Memorial Trophy.
• He was also a finalist for the award in previous seasons, reflecting his consistent community work.
• Rinne's number 35 was retired by the Predators in 2022, the first player in franchise history to receive that honor.
• The King Clancy Trophy is named after the former NHL defenseman and referee who was a pioneer in community service.