1.Joe Pavelski, San Jose Sharks

One of my articles a few weeks ago was all about how the Sharks could potentially make a long playoff run. The first key I had was that Pavelski needed to be the best player on the ice for them to win. Five games later, and there is no doubt that Pavelski was the dominant player in the Sharks-Kings series. He had five goals in only five games, and he scored in every game the Sharks won. That’s a job well done.

2.Tyler Johnson, Tampa Bay Lightning 

Tyler Johnson was not himself in the regular season, battling through injuries and just flat out poor play. He was able to step up on the top line and get Tampa Bay a pretty smooth first round victory over the rival Red Wings. Tyler Johnson was almost singlehandedly responsible for the first two wins, scoring two goals and picking up four assists. He picked up a key assist in the fourth game that really turned the momentum in Detroit’s favor.

3.Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins

Crosby knew he had to step up against the Rangers, who have beaten the Penguins in their last two playoff series. Crosby scored three goals in the five game series, and had a couple multi point games. His 2 +/- right now is his best playoff +/- in five years.

4.Duncan Keith, Chicago Blackhawks

Duncan Keith has played over 30 MPG in his ongoing series against the Blues. He got an important goal in the second game, and has gotten three so far in the series. He kept the team in the game during their double overtime victory over the Blues, playing 42 minutes in that contest.

5.Martin Jones, San Jose Sharks 

A lot of people seemed nervous about the inexperienced Jones in his first true playoff test as a starting goaltender. Jones showed that he could live up to the moment, as he was in net for all four Sharks wins. His 2.18 GAA and 91.2 SV% really helped the Sharks overcome a Kings team that had home ice advantage.