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NHL Playoffs: Updated Conn Smythe power rankings

By Dave Stevenson

Mar 28, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Ottawa Senators defenseman Erik Karlsson (65) looks on from the ice during the first period against the Philadelphia Flyers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 28, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Ottawa Senators defenseman Erik Karlsson (65) looks on from the ice during the first period against the Philadelphia Flyers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 22, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) celebrates an empty net goal against the Montreal Canadiens during the third period in game six of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) celebrates an empty net goal against the Montreal Canadiens during the third period in game six of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Henrik Lundqvist

Goalie, New York Rangers

Why he can win: If the New York Rangers win the Stanley Cup, it’s going to be because of Henrik Lundqvist. He’s been outstanding so far, posting one of the best save percentages in the first round. Lundqvist is a strong Conn Smythe contender because he’s the heart and soul of the Rangers, carrying them through the first round when they couldn’t score goals. Another factor working in his favor – none of his teammates are averaging a point per game. Though Mats Zuccarello could get some votes if he keeps scoring clutch goals, it’s easy to see Lundqvist is in the driver’s seat on Broadway.

Why he won’t win: The Rangers will play the Ottawa Senators in the second round. One game is an incredibly small sample size, but in Lundqvist’s lone start against them this season, he allowed three goals. The way Ottawa’s playing, if they get three goals, they’re likely winning. Also, Lundqvist has to deal with a subpar defense in front of him. Outside of Ryan McDonagh and Brady Skjei, nobody else is overly impressive. After dealing with the Senators, all Lundqvist has to do is beat one of the two best teams in the NHL and both have given him problems this year.

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