Don Maloney of the Phoenix Coyotes beat out the Capitals’ George McPhee and the Predators’ David Poile to win the inaugural NHL General Manager of the Year Award.

McPhee built a Capitals team that won its first ever President’s Trophy and broke its previous franchise record for points in a season. Additionally, the organization’s minor league affiliate, the Hershey Bears, led the American Hockey League in points and is currently vying for its second consecutive Calder Cup championship.

When speaking about the award, Maloney offered praise to McPhee:

“I’m truly honored and humbled by this award. When I placed my vote, my first vote went to George in Washington. I thought: The object is to win and the Caps had the best record (in the NHL). Not only that, their minor league team is playing for a championship. That, to me, is worthy of an award.”