Ranking the top 10 Conn Smythe Trophy candidates

May 3, 2015; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Tampa Bay Lightning forward Tyler Johnson (9) stretches during the warmup period in game two of the second round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports /

3 of 11

May 6, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos (91) during the first period of game three of the second round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Montreal Canadiens at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

player. 23. After finishing second in the regular season to Alex Ovechkin with 43 goals, Steven Stamkos needed nine games in the playoffs before he lit the lamp. If not for the efforts of his teammates against the Detroit Red Wings in the first round, the Lightning likely are eliminated and Stamkos is receiving heat for yet another first round exit. Stamkos managed three assists in the opening round before picking up three goals and four assists against Carey Price and the Canadiens. He even fared well at right wing when shifted there at times. His inclusion on this list is more of a projection for what he can do the rest of the series against the Rangers (and potentially the Stanley Cup) because he’s tied for third on his team in scoring. Nevertheless, you must be on guard anytime No. 91 is on the ice because he can have a hat trick on any given night.. Center. Tampa Bay Lightning. Steven Stamkos. 9

Next: Ben Bishop

Home/NHL