The 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs are down to the conference finals which means that every game is much more significant. With so much at stake it is becoming more obvious which players are built for the drama, the grind and the moment that will call upon them to make a difference.
There was no shortage of drama and overtime in the first two rounds of the playoffs and it is fair to say that the final four teams are the most deserving to be in their position. These teams aren’t significantly better than those that they have stepped over to reach this point, but they have players that have stepped forward to make a difference when it matters the most.
There is still plenty of hockey left to play before one of four captains can hold Lord Stanley’s cup aloft. A lot can change over the next few weeks to determine who will join the ranks of hockey’s immortals.
The Conn Smythe Trophy is awarded to the most valuable player of the NHL playoffs and while it doesn’t always go to a player on the winning team, an extraordinary effort is required to receive the nomination in defeat. Here are the leading candidates remaining for Conn Smythe consideration.
Jonathan Toews, C, Chicago Blackhawks
Captain Serious looks as determined as ever to cement his status as the top player in the NHL. When Chicago has needed a big play in the playoffs, their captain has been absolutely clutch.
Marian Hossa, RW, Chicago Blackhawks
Hossa is playing like the big power forward Chicago needs him to be. He has quietly emerged as the leading scorer for the Hawks through two-plus rounds and has only scored two goals.
Corey Crawford, G, Chicago Blackhawks
As much as I hate to admit it, Crawford has been rock solid so far for Chicago. If he wins a second consecutive Stanley Cup, we might have to start giving this guy some credit.
Henrik Lundqvist, G, New York Rangers
The New York net minder has been sensational throughout the playoffs and carried the Rangers when they couldn’t seem to score. He has been the best and most consistent player on the Rangers all season and throughout the playoffs. Can single-handedly take over a game.
Martin St. Louis, RW, New York Rangers
The sentimental choice, St. Louis was quiet through the first round before coming to life against the Penguins in round two. The veteran winger has been playing with a heavy heart with the sudden passing of his mother, but seems to be playing with a purpose that has helped rally his entire team.
P.K. Subban, D, Montreal Canadiens
If the Canadiens can find their way out of an 0-2 hole headed to Madison Square Garden, it will be in large part because of their All Star defenseman. With Carey Price shelved indefinitely, the weight of Montreal’s hopes lie with the reigning Norris Trophy winner.
Jonathan Quick, G, Los Angeles Kings
The 2012 Conn Smythe winner has flashed the form that helped the Kings win the Stanley Cup two years ago. He’ll have his hands full with the defending champs, but if they can unseat Chicago it will be in large part because of their superstar net minder.
Anze Kopitar, C, Los Angeles Kings
As one of the more underrated players in the NHL, Kopitar is finally being recognized as one of the complete players in the game. The leading scorer in the Stanley Cup Playoffs (so far) was also given a nomination for the Selke Trophy, awarded to the top defensive forward in the league.