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2013 NHL Playoffs: A look at the early Conn Smythe candidates

San Jose Sharks v Los Angeles Kings - Game Five

in Game Five of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Staples Center on May 23, 2013 in Los Angeles, California.

Harry How

We’ve officially reached the midway point of these Stanley Cup playoffs.

Sixteen teams began the post-season and there are now just four remaining. It’s early, yes, but worth having a look at the early candidates for the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff M.V.P.


  • Jonathan Quick: The L.A. Kings goaltender, and winner of the Conn Smythe Trophy a year ago, has returned to that form in these playoffs. He was excellent in the Kings’ first two games of these playoffs but one could argue not good enough in back-to-back losses to St. Louis. Since then, he’s been nearly unbeatable. Look at the stats page on NHL.com. In these playoffs, Quick leads all NHL goalies in goals-against average, save percentage and shutouts. In wins, he’s tied for first with two other netminders.
  • Sidney Crosby: The captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins is currently third in playoff scoring and tied with his teammate,Pascal Dupuis, and Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp in goals. Had six points in the final four games of the Eastern Conference semifinal to help knock off the Ottawa Senators.
  • David Krejci: The Boston Bruins’ forward might not get the same accolades as a Sidney Crosby, but he leads all players in playoff scoring. Did anyone else remember that he’s had strong playoff contributions before, like, say in 2011, when he had 23 points in 25 games and the Bruins won the Stanley Cup?

Here’s a look at three more potential candidates:


  • Corey Crawford, goalie, Chicago Blackhawks
  • Kris Letang,defenseman, Pittsburgh Penguins
  • Patrick Sharp, forward, Chicago Blackhawks