The first round of the NHL playoffs is winding down, and the race for the Conn Smythe Trophy—awarded to the MVP of the Stanley Cup Playoffs—is heating up. While some early favorites have stumbled, a new group of contenders is emerging, each with a compelling story and a chance to etch their name in hockey history.
This week's watch list focuses on players who are not just performing well, but who have their teams in a position of strength. Notable stars like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Brandon Hagel didn't make the cut—not because of a lack of talent, but because their teams are facing elimination, trailing 3-2 in their respective series. A couple of wins for the Edmonton Oilers or Tampa Bay Lightning could quickly change that narrative.
Among our top contenders, two have already lifted the Stanley Cup, but none have yet claimed the Conn Smythe. That could change this year.
Jack Eichel, Vegas Golden Knights
Eichel entered the playoffs as a favorite, hit a quiet patch, and has now roared back. With five points in his last two games—including a goal and seven assists overall—he sits just one point behind playoff leaders Draisaitl and Kirill Kaprizov. His clutch play in back-to-back overtime wins has the Golden Knights on the verge of advancing to the second round. Eichel was a finalist for the Conn Smythe when Vegas won the Cup in 2023, ultimately losing to linemate Jonathan Marchessault. This year, he's hungry for his own hardware.
Matt Boldy, Minnesota Wild
Built for the physical grind of the postseason, Boldy brings speed, tenacity, and a net-front presence that drives opponents crazy. Through five games, he has four goals—scoring in two of three contests in Dallas—and leads the playoffs with 28 shots on goal (tied with Jason Robertson) and 49 shot attempts (tied with Nikita Kucherov). At just 25 years old, Boldy has never made it past the first round in his three previous playoff appearances. If the Wild can upset the Dallas Stars, expect him to only get better as the pressure mounts.
Kirill Kaprizov, Minnesota Wild
"Kirill the Thrill" has taken over the series, racking up five points in Minnesota's back-to-back wins. He's tied atop the scoring leaderboard with Leon Draisaitl, with two goals and a growing reputation for delivering in big moments. His dynamic playmaking and relentless energy make him a constant threat every time he hits the ice.
As the first round wraps up and the field narrows, these players are positioning themselves to be the story of the playoffs. Whether they're chasing their first Conn Smythe or adding to a legacy, the race is just beginning.