NHL second round superlatives highlight key performers in 2026 playoffs

Mitch Marner named MVP for Vegas Golden Knights

Mitch Marner has emerged as the clear leader for the Conn Smythe Trophy at this stage of the playoffs. His offensive output stands out across the board, with seven goals and 18 points in 12 games overall. Marner also led the entire NHL in scoring during the second round specifically.

Since May 2, the right winger has recorded five goals and six assists for 11 points. Those totals include two shorthanded points and a game-winning goal that helped propel the Golden Knights forward. On BetMGM, Marner sits as the third-favorite for the Conn Smythe at 10.00 odds.

His consistent impact in high-stakes situations makes him the top choice for second-round honors. Honorable mentions go to goaltenders Frederik Andersen, Carter Hart, and Jakub Dobes, along with Nathan MacKinnon for their contributions.

Alex Tuch disappoints in Buffalo Sabres series loss

Alex Tuch struggled to make an impact during Buffalo’s seven-game series against Montreal. The power forward finished with zero points and a minus-eight rating over the matchup. This slump came at a particularly inopportune time, given the playoffs’ intensity and Tuch’s status as a pending unrestricted free agent.

Tuch had shown better form in the first round against the Boston Bruins, where he tallied four goals and seven points in six games. However, Montreal’s two-way centers, including Nick Suzuki, Jake Evans, and Phillip Danault, effectively neutralized him throughout the series.

The lack of production stands out as the round’s most notable letdown. Other players receiving honorable mentions for disappointment include Alex Lyon, Lukas Dostal, and Travis Konecny.

Alex Newhook shines as unsung hero for Montreal Canadiens

Alex Newhook delivered exceptional value for the Montreal Canadiens throughout their series win over Buffalo. Beyond scoring the series-clinching goal in overtime of Game 7, Newhook tallied six goals and seven points overall in the round. Two of those goals served as equalizers, while two others gave Montreal the lead at critical moments.

His regular-season totals of 13 goals and 25 points in 42 games make this postseason surge particularly impressive. Newhook’s timely scoring and overall play have provided excellent support for the Habs as they advance.

This performance earns him recognition as the second round’s unsung hero. Additional players deserving mention in this category include Brett Howden, Jackson Blake, and Jake Evans.

Minnesota Wild versus Colorado Avalanche Game 1 stands out as best contest

The highest-scoring affair of the round came in Game 1 between the Minnesota Wild and Colorado Avalanche. The contest ended 9-6 in favor of Colorado after a wild 15-goal outburst that ranks tied for fifth-highest in playoff history.

Lead changes and momentum swings kept the game riveting from start to finish. Colorado jumped to a 3-0 lead early, only for Minnesota to close the gap to one goal by the end of the first period. The Avalanche then extended to 4-2 before the Wild responded with three straight goals for a 5-4 advantage.

Nazem Kadri scored the seventh goal and eventual game-winner for Colorado early in the third to secure the 7-5 lead. Both starting goaltenders, Jesper Wallstedt and Scott Wedgewood, posted save percentages below .850. Devon Toews led all players with four points, while Cale Makar paced the game with two goals.

Honorable mentions for best game go to Montreal versus Buffalo in Games 4 and 7.

The second round has delivered a mix of individual brilliance and high-drama contests that set the stage for the final four. These superlatives underscore the depth of talent and the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey heading into the next phase.