2025 NHL Playoffs: Conn Smythe MVP Race Heats Up as Conference Finals Unfold

As the conference finals of the 2025 NHL playoffs unfold, the race for the Conn Smythe Trophy—awarded to the most valuable player of the postseason—is heating up. With four teams still in contention for the Stanley Cup, the competition for the MVP title is fierce. Here’s a closer look at the top candidates and their standout performances.

The Current MVP Leader: Mikko Rantanen

Mikko Rantanen, the right winger for the Dallas Stars, continues to dominate the Conn Smythe Watch. Leading all playoff scorers with 19 points in 13 games, including a playoff-best nine goals, Rantanen has been instrumental in the Stars' journey to their third consecutive conference finals. His performance has been nothing short of spectacular, with five three-point games in the first 10 playoff games of the postseason—a feat unmatched in NHL history.

Rantanen's narrative is compelling. After being traded by the Colorado Avalanche earlier in the season, he has been on a 'revenge tour,' proving his worth with his new team. Dallas coach Peter DeBoer praised Rantanen's resilience, stating, "He's been through a lot, but he's silenced the doubters."

The Other Favorites: Frederik Andersen and Connor McDavid

Frederik Andersen, the goaltender for the Carolina Hurricanes, was the clear second choice among voters before the Eastern Conference finals began. With a .937 save percentage and a 1.36 goals-against average in nine games, Andersen's stats were mind-blowing. However, his performance in Game 1 against the Florida Panthers saw a slight dip, raising questions about his consistency moving forward.

Connor McDavid, the center for the Edmonton Oilers, is another strong contender. With 17 points in 11 games, McDavid is leading the Oilers with a 1.55 points-per-game average. The reigning Conn Smythe winner is aiming to become the fourth player in NHL history to win consecutive MVP awards.

Making Their Cases: Jake Oettinger and Leon Draisaitl

Jake Oettinger, the goaltender for the Dallas Stars, has been a difference-maker in key games, including a stellar performance in Game 7 against the Winnipeg Jets. With a .919 save percentage and a 2.47 goals-against average, Oettinger has proven to be a reliable backbone for the Stars.

Leon Draisaitl, the center for the Edmonton Oilers, is right behind McDavid in scoring with five goals and 11 assists in 11 games. Draisaitl's two-way game has been praised, and his clutch performances in overtime have been crucial for the Oilers.

On the Cusp: Jaccob Slavin, Andrei Svechnikov, Sergei Bobrovsky, and Brad Marchand

Several players are on the cusp of entering the MVP conversation. Jaccob Slavin and Andrei Svechnikov of the Carolina Hurricanes have shown flashes of brilliance, while Sergei Bobrovsky and Brad Marchand of the Florida Panthers have been key contributors in their team's success.

Honorable Mentions: Seth Jones and Eetu Luostarinen

Seth Jones and Eetu Luostarinen of the Florida Panthers have also made significant impacts, with Luostarinen leading the team in points after Game 1 against Carolina.

As the conference finals progress, the race for the Conn Smythe Trophy remains wide open. Stay tuned for more updates on this thrilling NHL postseason.