By: Mike Rifkin
The NHL All-Star Game takes place next weekend, thus putting us at the halfway point of the season. At the halfway point, people debate who the current frontrunners for awards are. Two other captains deserve to be talked about regarding the Hart Trophy. Oilers Center Connor McDavid won the Hart Trophy (MVP) two seasons ago and finished second last season. McDavid is currently running away with the Art Ross Trophy ( most points) 15 ahead of teammate Leon Draisaitl; he is also leading the Rocket Richard race (most goals).
The Boston Bruins are currently the best team in the NHL, with a record of 38-5-4. Patrice Bergeron is a big reason for their success. Bergeron has 18 goals and 38 points in 47 games played. Five of the eighteen goals he has scored are game-winning goals. Bergeron isn’t the flashy player McDavid is, but he has been solid his entire career, and I still feel he is underappreciated. Bergeron does everything for the Bruins, kills penalties, plays the power play, and takes all the crucial faceoffs. Bergeron has won 62 percent of faceoffs this season. The Bruins have a lot of good players, but they would not have the record they have if Patrice Bergeron decided not to return to them this season.
Before McDavid was the NHL’S human highlight reel, Sidney Crosby was that guy. The Penguins captain has 23 goals and 57 points in 47 games played. Crosby has been the definition of consistency and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. Crosby has won 52 percent of his faceoffs. Where would the Penguins be without Crosby?
McDavid is the best player in the NHL. What Crosby and Bergeron mean to their respective teams is why they should be up there when we talk MVP.
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