Sports Interaction

2024 Conn Smythe Trophy Odds: Connor McDavid the Frontrunner

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The winner of the Conn Smythe Trophy is chosen by the Professional Hockey Writers Association at the conclusion of the Stanley Cup Final. Previous winners include Jonathan Marchessault in 2023, Cale Makar in 2022, and Victor Hedman in 2021.

Here are my top five picks to win the trophy this year:

Connor McDavid  +200

Connor McDavid is the current favourite to win the Conn Smythe. He leads the playoffs with 31 points (five goals, 26 assists) and is undoubtedly the driving force behind the Edmonton Oilers.

Edmonton winning the Cup would significantly boost McDavid’s chances of being awarded the trophy. A player on the losing team has only won the Conn Smythe a handful of times; the last instance was in 2003 when the Anaheim Mighty Ducks’ Jean-Sebastien Giguere received the prize.

Leon Draisaitl  +700

Draisaitl’s odds aren’t as favourable, but he could be a smart pick. He led the team in points earlier in the season, but with McDavid catching up and a persistent injury affecting him, his chances might be lower.

Still, Draisaitl is only three points behind McDavid and has a balanced record with 10 goals and 18 assists. If the Panthers manage to contain McDavid and Draisaitl steps up, a +700 payout is possible.

Matthew Tkachuk +600

Tkachuk is a strong contender, leading the Panthers this postseason with 19 points in 17 games. He’s the type of player who could shine in the Stanley Cup Final if he stays healthy. At +600, he’s a solid pick.

Aleksander Barkov  +400

Barkov may not lead the Panthers in points, but he has excelled at shutting down top opponents, including making it tough for Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider in the last series. If he continues his solid play, he has a good chance to win the trophy.

Stuart Skinner +25000

Remember when Stuart Skinner was benched for Calvin Pickard in the second round? Fast forward to now. He’s been outstanding in net for the Oilers with a .920 save percentage, allowing only 15 goals in his last eight games. Despite his impressive turnaround, he would need to post a few shutouts to become a true Conn Smythe contender, making him my long shot pick.

Conn Smythe Winner Prediction

Despite my top five picks, I’m going with Connor McDavid as the winner. Let’s face it, he’s a powerhouse and the leader of these Oilers. If Edmonton wins the Stanley Cup, it will likely be due to a stellar performance from him. So, my pick is McDavid at +200 to win the trophy.