Tuukka Rask Deserves the Conn Smythe Trophy Even if Bruins Lose

The Bruins pushed the Stanley Cup Finals to a seventh and final game that will take place Wednesday night. After a 5-1 outburst in Game 6, the Bruins enter the winner-take-all Game 7 with a head full of steam. That outburst, however, was only possible for Boston thanks to the Finnish man guarding the net.

Tuukka Rask has been absolutely lights out throughout the playoffs, especially when on the brink of elimination. If it weren't for the clutch play of Rask in Game 6, the Blues would've likely lifted the cup Sunday night.

Even if the Bruins are to be defeated at home in Game 7, Rask has made his case for the Conn Smythe Trophy. Five players in the history of the NHL have been awarded the Conn Smythe despite not winning the Stanley Cup. Four of those five times, the winner was a goalie.

Rask's stats speak for themselves and prove that he is having a historical postseason. However, just by watching Rask it's easy to tell he is dialed in to a new level.

If Boston is able to secure the Stanley Cup in Game 7, Rask would be the heavy favorite to win the Conn Smythe. If they lose, he still has a better chance at being awarded the playoff MVP trophy than most Blues players.

Regardless of who is awarded the Conn Smythe, Rask has put on an unreal goaltending display unlike anything we've seen in recent years. For years, he's been the heart and soul of the Bruins. Whether or not his team lifts the cup, Rask's 2019 postseason will always be considered one of MVP-caliber.