The 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs have reached their climax, with the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers set to face off in a highly anticipated rematch. One player from this series will be crowned the Conn Smythe Trophy winner, awarded to the NHL postseason MVP.

The Current MVP Leader

Connor McDavid, C, Edmonton Oilers McDavid, who won the Conn Smythe last year despite the Oilers' loss, is once again the frontrunner. He has dominated the playoffs with 26 points (6 goals, 20 assists) in 16 games. McDavid’s performance against the Dallas Stars was particularly stellar, contributing points in every game and totaling nine points in their five-game series. His leadership and skill have earned him the top spot on 71% of the ballots collected from national and beat writers.

The Other Favorites

Sergei Bobrovsky, G, Florida Panthers Bobrovsky, known as "Playoff Bob," has been a wall in net with a .912 save percentage and a 2.11 goals-against average. His performance in the Eastern Conference finals against the Carolina Hurricanes was crucial, with a save percentage of .920 or better in four of the five games.

Aleksander Barkov, C, Florida Panthers Barkov leads the Panthers with 17 points in 17 games, including six goals. His impact was evident in Game 5 against the Hurricanes, where he assisted on the series-clinching goal. Barkov’s presence on the ice significantly boosts the Panthers' scoring and expected goals.

Making Their Cases

Leon Draisaitl, C, Edmonton Oilers Draisaitl is just one point behind McDavid with 25 points in 16 games. If he has a dominant Stanley Cup Final and the Oilers win, he could leapfrog McDavid for the MVP.

Sam Bennett, C, Florida Panthers Bennett leads the playoffs with 10 goals and has been a physical force for the Panthers. His 16 points in 17 games make him a key player in their quest for the Cup.

On the Cusp

Evan Bouchard, D, Edmonton Oilers Bouchard has been a standout defenseman with 17 points, the most by any defenseman in the playoffs. His average ice time of 25:01 per game highlights his importance to the Oilers.

Brad Marchand, LW, Florida Panthers Marchand has been instrumental with 14 points in 17 games, bringing his trademark hustle and offense. His overtime goal in Game 3 against the Toronto Maple Leafs was a pivotal moment in the Panthers' postseason.

Lack of Buzz

Despite their contributions, players like Stuart Skinner, Sam Reinhart, Matthew Tkachuk, and Carter Verhaeghe have not received significant MVP consideration. Their performances, while notable, have been overshadowed by the standout play of McDavid and others.

As the Stanley Cup Final unfolds, all eyes will be on these key players to see who will rise to the occasion and claim the Conn Smythe Trophy.