The conversation surrounding the possibility of winning the Conn Smythe as a member of a losing team has resurfaced in NHL circles this year. One player who is at the center of this discussion is Connor McDavid, who has emerged as the betting favorite for the prestigious award. McDavid has been instrumental in leading the Oilers to a remarkable comeback, going from being down 3-0 in the series to now 3-2. His consecutive four-point games have been nothing short of exceptional, and all eyes are on him as Game 6 approaches in Edmonton.
This outstanding performance comes at the end of a record-breaking postseason for McDavid, who is widely regarded as one of the most electrifying players in hockey. He has shattered Wayne Gretzky’s single-postseason assists record with an impressive 34 assists in just 23 games. Furthermore, his league-leading 42 points are nearly double the tally of the Panthers’ leading scorer, Matthew Tkachuk. In fact, McDavid’s point total ranks as the fourth-highest in NHL history. If he manages to accumulate six more points, he will surpass Gretzky’s record of 47 points set in 1985, which would be an extraordinary achievement.
Reggie Leach, the only non-goaltender from a non-Stanley Cup champion to win the Conn Smythe in 1976, has even gone so far as to declare McDavid as the current playoff MVP. According to Leach, it is not just about the points for McDavid but the way he has carried his team throughout the entire playoffs. Leach believes that McDavid’s performance in the last two games has been nothing short of outstanding and solidifies his status as the best player in the playoffs.
With McDavid potentially following in Leach’s footsteps as a Conn Smythe winner on a losing team, many wonder what it would be like for him. To gain further insights, we can look at the experiences of three previous playoff MVPs who found themselves on the losing side of the Stanley Cup.
It is undeniably a bittersweet experience to win the Conn Smythe but lose the ultimate prize, as these three players can attest. However, their accomplishments should not be diminished. They exemplify the ability to shine individually even in the face of defeat. The Conn Smythe recognizes the most valuable player in the playoffs, regardless of the overall outcome for their team.
One such player is Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who won the Conn Smythe in 2003 as a member of the Anaheim Ducks despite losing in seven games to the New Jersey Devils. Giguere’s performance in that postseason was exceptional, with a staggering .945 save percentage and a reputation for standing on his head to keep his team competitive. He showcased his skill and determination, proving that individual success can still be achieved even when the team falls short.
Similarly, Ron Hextall was awarded the Conn Smythe in 1987 as a member of the Philadelphia Flyers, despite ultimately losing to the Edmonton Oilers. Hextall’s remarkable playoff run saw him become the first goaltender to score a goal in the Stanley Cup Final. His exceptional play and resilient attitude made him a deserving winner of the Conn Smythe, even though his team couldn’t capture the ultimate prize.
Lastly, we have Brian Leetch, who received the Conn Smythe in 1994 as a member of the New York Rangers. Although the Rangers were defeated by the Vancouver Canucks in seven games, Leetch’s outstanding performance throughout that postseason solidified his place as the MVP. He showcased his offensive prowess from the blue line and played a crucial role in leading his team to the Finals.
While winning the Conn Smythe without winning the Stanley Cup may leave a sense of unfulfilled ambition, it should not diminish the incredible achievements of these players. Their performances serve as a testament to their individual brilliance and ability to elevate their game when it matters most. The Conn Smythe is a recognition of their exceptional contributions to the playoffs, regardless of the final outcome.
In conclusion, Connor McDavid’s outstanding playoff performance has positioned him as the frontrunner for the Conn Smythe this year. His record-breaking numbers and impact on the ice make him a deserving candidate for the prestigious award. While the possibility of winning the Conn Smythe on a losing team raises questions about the experience, looking at past winners provides valuable insights. Winning the Conn Smythe but losing the Stanley Cup is undoubtedly a bittersweet experience, but it should not undermine the individual accomplishments and contributions of these exceptional players.