Who gets the Conn Smythe?

So, before the big game gets under way tonight, I want to put in my 2¢ and comment on the eventual winner of the Conn Smythe trophy that goes to the most valuable player for the playoffs.

Rob may or may not have jumped the gun (much like the people at Beckett did), but he still could be right on the money should the Canes take Game 7. Make no mistake; the outcome of the game will decide the winner of the trophy. This is how close of a series it has been.

Here are my thoughts on the players for both teams:

Carolina:

1. Rod Brind’Amour – He’s the front-runner for the award on the Canes’ side. The captain has been the true leader of this team and has come up big throughout the playoffs. His game seems to have been somewhat stifled by Edmonton’s hard hitting team defence, but you could say that about any of the Carolina players on any given night.

2. Cory Stillman – One could make a strong case for Stillman who, along with Staal, has been leading the Canes’ offence. To think that almost nobody wanted to sign him to a multi-year deal after he left Tampa Bay must make some GM’s out there squirm. He has been strong at both ends of the ice throughout the playoffs and, had it not been for his bad pass in Game 5, we may not have had to see a Game 7. That may be why he doesn’t get this award.

3. Eric Staal – He won’t win this trophy, but he’ll get some consideration. Given the fact that he’s 21, he just may have another crack or two at this later on. This guy is no one-hit-wonder. He’ll help lead Canada back to respectability in 2010 (along with some kid named Sidney).


Edmonton:

1. Chris Pronger – To me, he’s the only candidate who could win the trophy even if his team loses. He’s been that good. After a rough regular season, Pronger has adjusted to the “new” NHL, where the refs are just as inconsistent as in the “old” NHL, and has been one of the most effective and least penalized players on either side. Not to mention that the guy is always on the ice and there are rumours that he may play over 35 minutes in Game 7. He’s my pick, win or lose.

2. Fernando Pisani – I’ve already written about Pisani before and I love the story. He’s the new John Druce. He’s the guy who almost has as many goals in the playoffs as he did in the regular season and who has come up with some seriously clutch goals. He may be playing over his head, but you have to admit that it would be hard to imagine Edmonton being here without his major contribution. He’s a dark horse for the trophy, but needs mentioning nonetheless.

So, that’s my take on things. Game 7 is on in a few hours.

See you on the other side.