Aleksander Barkov praised across fanbases after Selke Trophy surprise from children's hospital patients

Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov was left stunned with the Frank J. Selke Trophy and King Clancy Memorial Trophy recently, but it wasn't the league or a press conference that made the experience so memorable.

Instead, Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital patients delivered the awards in person at the Panthers' practice facility in Hollywood, Florida. The touching moment resonated not just with Florida Panthers fans but across enemy fanbases on Reddit, where hockey fans put aside playoff wars to praise Aleksander Barkov's humility and skill.

Aleksander Barkov receives widespread acclaim after poignant Selke Trophy ceremony

The surprise ceremony, organized by children fighting real-life adversity, made for a strong moment that eclipsed ordinary hockey rivalries.

Aleksander Barkov, who received the Frank J. Selke Trophy for his excellent defensive play as a forward and the King Clancy Memorial Trophy for leadership and community service, looked visibly shaken when the young patients presented him with the honors. But maybe the most surprising response came not from Barkov himself but from the fervent hockey community on Reddit. “I know we’re about to go to war with these dudes but I fucking love Barkov, man,” one commenter wrote, referencing the Panthers' upcoming playoff wars.

Another, a fan of the Edmonton Oilers, had this to say: “Oilers fan and completely agree. He's an absolute gem and even though he's getting more notice now, I'd still say he's underrated.”The admiration came from fans of bitter divisional rivals such as the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins, with one even praising Barkov alongside Patrice Bergeron and Anze Kopitar, two of the best names that are synonymous with two-way greatness in hockey. “He’s taken over Bergeron’s on & off ice greatness!” one user commented. Others pondered the way Barkov's gentlemanly character brings dignity to the sport. One commenter commented, “It’s hard not to love him. One of the most likable players in the game.”Even those Panthers fans known for their hatred of the team couldn't help but express admiration: “I hate the Panthers. I love Barkov. He's on the Bergeron/Kopitar tier of phenomenal players.”The response wasn't simply emotional; it also highlighted how consistently great Barkov has been and how quietly he has sustained that level. “Barkov is so consistently good I feel some fans overlook him,” one commenter said—echoing long-time complaints that Barkov doesn't receive the national criticism he deserves. Even during controversies, like whether or not the NHL should hold off on giving out awards until the conclusion of the playoffs, the dominant mood was gratitude for Barkov's leadership both on and off the ice. Also read: Florida Panthers Captain Aleksander Barkov sets NHL record by winning Selke, King Clancy in the same yearAleksander Barkov's surprise award ceremony was far more than a warm-and-fuzzy moment; it was a rare unifier in a hyper-competitive sport. With fans from every corner of the NHL universe chiming in to congratulate his class, ability, and humility, Barkov's legend as a modern icon keeps building. The Panthers might have their fair share of detractors, but their captain is winning hearts throughout the league.