Jordan Staal Claims Conn Smythe Trophy as Playoff MVP, Sets Record at Age 37

Carolina Hurricanes' coach Rod Brind'Amour understands the emotions Jordan Staal is experiencing after winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP. As the captain during the Hurricanes' Stanley Cup victory two decades ago, Brind'Amour recognizes the significance of Staal's leadership. "We’re not here today without Jordan Staal," Brind'Amour noted. "I can promise you that. We’re very lucky. And as a coach, you’re super fortunate to have a guy like that be your leader."

Staal played a pivotal role in securing the Hurricanes' second championship by showcasing his skills as a two-way shutdown center and faceoff specialist throughout the playoffs. He notably led the team with six goals in the finals against the Vegas Golden Knights, ultimately earning him the playoff MVP title. At the age of 37, he becomes the oldest player to receive this honor.

Teammate Seth Jarvis praised Staal's performance, stating, "He’s always really good, but yeah, he’s stepped it up at such a pivotal time. It’s incredible to watch, and it’s so much fun playing with him and being around him." Staal, who has been with the Hurricanes since a trade from Pittsburgh on his wedding day in 2012, is the organization's longest-tenured player. Despite experiencing several seasons without playoff appearances, his perseverance has been crucial to the team's success.

Veteran Jordan Martinook reflected on Staal's journey, suggesting that the struggles he faced during his early years with the team may have fueled his drive. "The fact that he’s seen some pretty dark days here and then to be on the other side of it ... he stuck through it the whole time," Martinook said. Since taking over as captain in 2020, Staal has carried the burden of past playoff disappointments, using them to fuel his determination.

Despite never winning the Selke Trophy for the league's best defensive forward, Staal's contributions have been undeniable, especially evident in his successful faceoff percentage of over 56%. After the Hurricanes' victory, Staal humbly credited his consistent effort for his success. "I’m just being me," he said. "I’m not really anyone different. But just my day-to-day presence is showing up and working." His remarkable performance in the finals, where he scored six goals, places him among legends like Mario Lemieux and Mike Bossy.

Brind'Amour expressed no surprise at Staal's achievement, emphasizing that even without the goals, his impact on the team remains significant. "You take the goals away, it’d be the same impact. It’s just added that extra element," he remarked. Staal's journey and leadership played a crucial role in the Hurricanes' triumphant season.