NY Islanders captain Anders Lee wins the 2023-24 King Clancy Memorial Trophy

New York Islanders captain Anders Lee is the proud winner of the 2023-24 King Clancy Memorial Trophy. The annual award, which was announced on Tuesday night, is presented "to the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community."

“It’s been a wonderful experience meeting the kids, the families,” said Lee to ESPN's Steve Levy before Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals. “Had a special relationship with one of them, Fenov (Pierre-Louis); he’s my guy and really a big inspiration behind all of this."

For years, Lee has been raising money for families impacted by cancer through Jam Kancer in the Kan events. Per their website, the foundation is committed to raising funds for families affected by a “kancer” diagnosis by bringing groups of people together to participate in “Kancer Jam” fundraising events. The events, organized by Lee, feature Islanders fans and all of Lee's teammates as they pair up and compete by tossing frisbees into a slot and into a can.

It was his relationship with Fenov, who was battling Stage 4 Neuroblastoma, that made a lasting impact on Lee and has motivated him ever since. Fenov tragically passed away in 2018 at just 17 years old. Since then, Lee has awarded "Fenov Scholarships" to graduating high school seniors continuing on to college who have "provided help and sympathy" to someone with "kancer." To date, 24 scholarships have been awarded, providing nearly $50,000 of financial support.

“Wanted to carry on a message that he had of helping kids and families with cancer, making a difference in any way you can," Lee added. "I’ve been honored to do that for him and be a part of the [Jam Kancer in the Kan Foundation] and doing some work around Long Island.”