Matias Maccete
Chopping up defenses
- Sep 21, 2014
- 9,708
- 3,647
That's the reaction on the Sharks board as well. I can't believe I'm defending Crosby, but I think he was the correct choice, if you're not giving it to the losing team's goalie.
If you look past the numbers, Crosby was visible on both sides of the puck nearly every shift. Kessel was very good, but just not the presence everywhere on the ice in the way that Crosby was.
Also, note that the Conn Smythe Trophy is awarded based on the entire playoff run, and not just the Finals.
I think beyond the numbers kessel was better too. He drove the puck to the net and applied insane pressure every game. Defensively sid was very good, but kessel kept the puck in the san jose end. I'd still put sid behind both kessel and malkin.