Conn Smythe Watch: Justin Williams leading MVP race?

By popular demand, Puck Daddy takes its Conn Smythe Watch from the evening Three Stars to every morning of the postseason. Keep in mind that we factor in the probability of a long playoff run into these choices. Who are the current favorites for playoff MVP? Glad you asked.

1. Justin Williams, Los Angeles Kings

Williams has 23 points in 23 games. He doesn’t lead the Kings in goals or points for the postseason, but it’s clear he’s their biggest impact offensive player at this point. He has 12 points in his last eight games, including three assists in Game 2. He’s also a plus-13. As of right now, he’s the MVP.

2. Anze Kopitar, Los Angeles Kings

Kopitar had an assist in Game 2, giving him 25 points in 23 games to lead the playoffs.

3. Henrik Lundqvist, New York Rangers

Lundqvist has a .925 save percentage and a 2.16 GAA, and remains the sole reason why the Rangers are playing for the Stanley Cup.

4. Drew Doughty, Los Angeles Kings

Doughty played 41 minutes in Game 2, but didn’t have the same significant impact he’s had in previous games.

5. Marian Gaborik, Los Angeles Kings

Gaborik scored his 13th goal of the postseason, leading all scorers.

6. Jeff Carter, Los Angeles Kings

Carter was scoreless in Game 2, but has 23 points in 23 games with nine goals.

7. Jonathan Quick, Los Angeles Kings

Quick stopped 34 shots in Game 2, and continues to be better than his stats (.906 save percentage) would indicate.

8. Martin St. Louis, New York Rangers

St. Louis’ power-play goal gave him 14 points in 22 games to lead the Rangers, although he was a minus-3.

9. Mats Zuccarello, New York Rangers

The speedy forward was the best Rangers skater in Game 2, and has 13 points in 22 games.

10. Derek Stepan, New York Rangers

Has 14 points in 21 games for the Rangers, including an assist in Game 2.