"Even-keeled to the core, Daymond Langkow is not the type of guy to let much of anything faze him.

Then came the news of his nomination for the 2011 Bill Masterton Trophy as chosen by the Calgary chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers' Association.

The award is presented after the end of the regular season to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.

"Well, it's obviously an honour," the Calgary Flames centre said Monday afternoon. "You know I've only played two games, so it was pretty shocking. But it's an honour, nonetheless."

An honour much-deserved thanks to a tireless comeback from a fractured C-3 vertebrae — or, in layman's terms, a broken neck.

Langkow is not one to speak in dramatic terms about his experience. Don't expect him to campaign for the award.

Self-promotion just isn't his thing.

"It was pretty tough at times," said Langkow, 34. "I guess frustrating is probably the best word to describe it — obviously wanting to get back and play and not being able."