Iginla, Malkin, Ovechkin are Hart Trophy finalists

NEW YORK -- Calgary Flames right wing Jarome Iginla, Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin and Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin are the three finalists for the Hart Trophy that is awarded to the NHL's most valuable player.

Poll Who will win the Hart Trophy? 61% Alex Ovechkin   34% Evgeni Malkin   5% Jarome Iginla   Total Votes: 2565

Iginla, a Hart Trophy finalist for the third time, had 50 goals and 48 assists to rank third in the NHL in both categories. It was the second time he had reached the 50-goal mark, and the 98 points were a career best.

Malkin and Ovechkin both are first-time Hart finalists.

Ovechkin won the scoring title with 112 points and also led the league with 65 goals. Malkin was second in scoring with 106 points.

The finalists were announced Tuesday by the NHL. The winner will be announced June 12 at the NHL awards ceremony in Toronto.