In my understanding, one reason Kariya may not "deserve" consideration for the
Hobey Baker award is that it's not simply a top-numbers award.  There is also
consideration for the student's academic performance; in addition, the
committee considers the "character" of the player, what he's like as a person
off the ice.  (For instance, non-academic community involvement on and off
campus?)  In these last two respects, has Kariya really had the opportunity to
establish himself as a candidate?
 
That's not a rhetorical question - everything I just said is what I've seen on
or inferred from past Hockey-L postings.  Let me know if I'm off the mark...
 
Ross