Knights' Jonathan Marchessault wins Conn Smythe as playoff MVP - ESPN

LAS VEGAS — Aside from being one of the Vegas Golden Knights' six «Original Misfits,» Jonathan Marchessault can now add another title to his name: Conn Smythe Trophy winner.

Marchessault was named the most valuable player of the Stanley Cup playoffs following the Knights' commanding 9-3 Stanley Cup-clinching victory Tuesday in Game 5 against the Florida Panthers at T-Mobile Arena. Marchessault recorded an assist in the win that gave the Golden Knights their first title in their six-year history.

Marchessault led the Golden Knights with 13 goals and ranked second with 25 points. His lone point in Game 5 extended his postseason scoring streak to 10 games and also gave him a short-lived lead atop of the playoff points standings. Marchessault entered Game 5 tied for first in points with Dallas Stars forward Roope Hintz and Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk with 24.

Then, Golden Knights center Jack Eichel finished with three assists to eclipse Marchessault by a single point in the final standings.

Marchessault saw his stock surge from that of a steady producer to a player who became one of the main threats in the Golden Knights' run to a championship.

One of the looming questions entering Game 5 — aside from if the Golden Knights would win the Cup at home — was centered on who would ultimately win the Conn Smythe.

Several players presented arguments. Eichel gave the Golden Knights the sort of top-line center who could drive play while being trusted in defensive situations. Eichel's maiden playoff voyage saw him shrug off questions about his lack of playoff experience. He gave the Golden Knights the production expected of a No. 1 center by entering Game 5 just one point away from being tied for first.

Adin Hill was on the bench