As the 2025 Stanley Cup Final gets underway between the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers, all eyes are on hockey’s biggest team prize. But closely behind is one of the sport’s most prestigious individual accolades, the Conn Smythe Trophy, awarded to the most valuable player throughout the entire postseason.
With stars on both rosters, the race is far from settled. Here are the top candidates and what makes them worthy.
Connor McDavid – Edmonton Oilers
McDavid remains the frontrunner for the Conn Smythe. He’s led the Oilers in scoring, been dangerous on nearly every shift, and has elevated his two-way game in critical moments. If Edmonton wins the Cup, McDavid’s impact, both offensively and defensively, will be hard to ignore. The only question is whether a teammate with a strong Final could outshine him at the last moment.
Leon Draisaitl – Edmonton Oilers
While McDavid gets the spotlight, Draisaitl continues to be the Oilers’ postseason heartbeat. His blend of power, playmaking, and clutch scoring has been crucial in every series. He’s come up big in elimination games and late in tight contests. If he outperforms McDavid in the Final, or scores series-defining goals, he could absolutely steal the Conn Smythe.
Evan Bouchard – Edmonton Oilers
Bouchard has been the Oilers' breakout star. With huge power-play production and calm, efficient defense, he’s proven invaluable. His ability to control play from the blue line and create offense from nothing has made him an X-factor. A big showing in the Final could tip voters in his direction, especially if McDavid and Draisaitl split attention.
Stuart Skinner – Edmonton Oilers
After a rocky start against L.A., Skinner has bounced back impressively. Since returning from the brief stint behind Pickard, he’s been sharp, composed, and dependable, particularly in later games in the Vegas and Dallas series. If he outduels Bobrovsky and has a couple of standout games in the Final, he could enter serious Conn Smythe territory.
Sergei Bobrovsky – Florida Panthers
Bobrovsky’s numbers speak for themselves, he’s played every minute for Florida and delivered. With a solid save percentage and multiple games where he completely shut the door, his play has been a stabilizing force. If the Panthers win and Bob remains their best player, he’s the favorite on their side.
Aleksander Barkov – Florida Panthers
Barkov has been dominant in less flashy ways. His elite shutdown ability, faceoff wins, and key goals make him the team’s backbone. If he can hold McDavid or Draisaitl in check during the Final while producing at the other end, he’ll get Conn Smythe votes.
Final Verdict: Right now, McDavid is the favorite, but this race is still open. If the Oilers win, Draisaitl or Bouchard could surge ahead. If Florida lifts the Cup, it’ll likely be on Bobrovsky’s back. Keep a close eye on these six—this Final could swing the vote in any direction.