Patrice Bergeron, Henrik Zetterberg and Patrik Elias headline the 2026 Hockey Hall of Fame ballot with Triple Gold credentials and strong playoff numbers.
Carolina ends 20-year Stanley Cup drought with 4-2 series win over Vegas.
After four games the Hurricanes held the narrowest of edges heading into Game 5 at home.
Staal's clutch scoring and defensive play make him a Conn Smythe dark horse whose Cup win would bolster Hall credentials.
Carolina moves to the brink of its first Stanley Cup title in two decades with a 4-2 Game 5 victory.
Karlsson exits Game 5 after Walker hit, leaving Vegas without its key two-way center in a 3-2 series hole.