Conn Smythe Trophy

Description: First awarded in 1964-65, the Conn Smythe Trophy is presented annually “to the most valuable player for his team in the playoffs.”

Voting: A panel of the Professional Hockey Writers Association submits ballots for the Conn Smythe Trophy at the conclusion of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

History: The Conn Smythe Trophy was presented by Maple Leaf Gardens Limited in 1964 to honor Conn Smythe, the former coach, manager, president and owner-governor of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

2025-26 Winner: Playing in his third career Stanley Cup Final and first in 17 years, Carolina Hurricanes center Jordan Staal tied the NHL record for the longest goal streak in the championship series (5 GP) and became the first player in 70 years to score in each of the first five games of a Stanley Cup Final en route to winning the Conn Smythe Trophy. Staal, who entered the championship round with 2-3—5 in 13 playoff contests, compiled 6-1—7 against the Vegas Golden Knights to become the fourth player in NHL history to score in each of the first five games of the Stanley Cup Final. The others: Jean Beliveau (1956 w/ MTL), Maurice Richard (1951 w/ MTL) and Cyclone Taylor (1918 w/ VMI). Staal led the NHL with 235 face-off wins during the entire 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, including a series-best 83 in the Stanley Cup Final – nearly double the next-closest player. His 68.0 face-off winning percentage in the Stanley Cup Final was the highest in the championship round on record (since 1998; minimum: 100 FO). At 37 years, 277 days on the final day of the playoffs, Staal became the oldest player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy. Boston Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas previously held the mark at 37 years, 61 days in 2011. Staal also became the first player in NHL history to go at least 17 years from one Stanley Cup to the next, following a championship he won with the 2009 Pittsburgh Penguins. The previous mark of 16 years was held by Chris Chelios (1986 w/ MTL and 2002 w/ DET).