Andersen Leads Conn Smythe Race as Hurricanes Sweep
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- Frederik Andersen posted an 8‑0 record with a .950 save percentage and 1.12 GAA as the Hurricanes swept the first two rounds — the first team to do so under the modern format — making him the top Conn Smythe contender per the writer poll.
- Mitch Marner was the co‑leader in the Conn Smythe voting, appearing on all but two ballots, and contributed four short‑handed points en route to the Western Conference finals for the Golden Knights.
- Nathan MacKinnon ranked third among voters but was the betting favorite, with DraftKings odds at +180 versus Andersen’s +400 and Marner’s +1200, after tallying 13 points (seven goals) in nine games.
- Professional Hockey Writers Association’s 18‑member panel will decide the Conn Smythe, and the poll surveyed over a dozen writers, many of whom hold a vote.
- Money Puck ranked Andersen at 11.2 goals saved above expected through eight games, edging out Montreal’s Jakub Dobes (11.1), highlighting his statistical dominance.
Why it matters: The tight voting and stark betting odds drive fan expectations and wagering, while the eventual Conn Smythe winner will cement a player’s postseason legacy and elevate their team’s profile.
