NHL Playoffs: Updated Conn Smythe power rankings
Erik Karlsson
Defenseman, Ottawa Senators
Why he will win: Erik Karlsson is already a generational defenseman. His unique blend of skill and skating has not been seen in a defenseman since at least Paul Coffey and arguably Bobby Orr. Karlsson is the first defenseman since Denis Potvin to lead his team in points in four consecutive seasons. In case he didn’t already have everyone’s attention, he got it after notifying the media casually he played the first round with hairline fractures. No big deal. Karlsson’s just been the most outstanding player on his team and making a huge impact despite having a broken foot.
Why he won’t win: Here’s the problem. While Karlsson has been the best player on his team, he’s battling two strong narratives. The first is Anderson’s feel good story. He put his family above hockey when he left the Senators to take care of his wife. Ottawa has rallied around him and it’s an understatement to say he’s a huge reason for their success. The second one is Bobby Ryan. After a dreadful regular season, he’s scored three huge goals for the Senators in the playoffs. Sometimes, the player who should win the Conn Smythe doesn’t. Karlsson could be one of those guys.