Connor McDavid Wins Conn Smythe Trophy as NHL Playoff MVP, Sets New Assist Record

Despite the Edmonton Oilers' loss to the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final, Connor McDavid was named the Conn Smythe Trophy winner as the playoff MVP. He led all players in points with 42, including a playoff record 34 assists.

Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid has been named the Conn Smythe Trophy winner as the Stanley Cup Playoffs MVP after a historic performance despite his team's defeat in Game 7. McDavid's individual brilliance shone throughout the playoffs, leading all players with 42 points, the fourth-best in NHL history. His 34 assists this postseason set a new playoff record, surpassing the previous mark held by Wayne Gretzky.

McDavid's playoff dominance was unparalleled, trailing only the legendary Gretzky (47, 43 points) and Mario Lemieux (44 points) in NHL history. He is the sixth player, and the second non-goalie, to win the Conn Smythe Trophy while on the losing team.

Connor McDavid Wins Conn Smythe Trophy as NHL Playoff MVP, Sets New Assist Record

McDavid's impact on the Oilers' remarkable run to the Finals cannot be overstated. He became the first player in league history to record back-to-back four-point games in Games 4 and 5 of the Finals, helping Edmonton rally from a 3-0 deficit to force a Game 7. The Oilers' resilience, driven by McDavid's heroics, made them the first team since 1945 to force a Game 7 in the Finals after facing a 3-0 deficit.

However, the Panthers' stingy defense contained McDavid in Games 6 and 7, preventing him from scoring. Despite his lack of points in the final games, McDavid's overall performance throughout the playoffs earned him the prestigious Conn Smythe Trophy.

Connor McDavid Wins Conn Smythe Trophy as NHL Playoff MVP, Sets New Assist Record

Florida Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky was also a contender for the award after his stellar performance in Game 7 and throughout the playoffs. Bobrovsky's outstanding saves in the third period of Game 7 kept the Panthers' lead intact and secured their Stanley Cup victory. Despite his recent struggles in games leading up to Game 7, Bobrovsky's overall performance throughout the playoffs was commendable, with a 2.38 goals-against average and a .903 save percentage.

While the Panthers' offense was a formidable force, Bobrovsky's presence in net allowed Florida to play aggressively, knowing they had a reliable last line of defense.

Connor McDavid Wins Conn Smythe Trophy as NHL Playoff MVP, Sets New Assist Record

Despite Edmonton's defeat, McDavid's exceptional performance cemented his status as one of the greatest players in the NHL. His playoff performance makes him a frontrunner for the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's MVP this season.

Although McDavid left Florida without a Stanley Cup, his Conn Smythe Trophy win is a testament to his incredible talent and leadership. His historic playoff performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest in NHL history.