Lightning’s Andrei Vasilevskiy receives Vezina Trophy with help from police K-9

Andrei Vasilevskiy was surprised with a major award announcement in an on-ice-style reveal that caught even some of the people involved off guard. According to the account, Milana said he did not initially realize anything unusual was happening when Josh opened the car door and Vasilevskiy saw a package in the front seat. Vasilevskiy said he started to suspect something was happening when the people around his car became “a little too comfortable” with the object inside it.

Yungadis, a Tampa Bay Lightning season-ticket holder, said he had only learned about the surprise about five minutes before it happened. He believed they were taking part in some kind of demonstration and said he was thrilled to be included, adding that he loves the Lightning.

Vasilevskiy, a six-time finalist for the Vezina Trophy, played a central role in Tampa Bay’s strong 2023-24 season, helping the Lightning finish second in the Atlantic Division with a 50-26-6 record. He was especially dominant during a key stretch of the season, allowing two goals or fewer in 35 of 58 games. From Dec. 20 through Feb. 25, he went 17-0-1 with a 1.90 goals-against average and a .925 save percentage.

The recognition adds to an already impressive resume for the veteran goaltender. Vasilevskiy is a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Lightning, winning titles in 2020 and 2021. He also earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the 2021 playoffs.

Speaking after the surprise, Vasilevskiy said he was deeply appreciative of the honor, but emphasized that his success is tied to the entire organization. He said individual awards reflect team effort and credited his teammates, coaches, trainers, fans, and the Lightning organization for helping create the environment needed for success.

He described the award as one of the highest goals a professional player can achieve, while making clear that the achievement is shared. Vasilevskiy’s comments highlighted both his humility and the leadership role he continues to play for Tampa Bay as one of the NHL’s top goaltenders.

The surprise reveal served as a fitting celebration for a player whose career has been defined by consistency, postseason success, and elite performance in net.