The second round of the 2022 NHL playoffs are underway and a large group of players are seeking their first Stanley Cup. Some have been in the league for a cup of coffee while others have paid their dues, and frankly, are due for that first hoist. You’re not going to find and Lightning or Blues players on this list, but there are plenty of members from other squads worth noting.

So without further ado, here are five we’d love to see get their first ring. Players who have not played a playoff game yet such as Joe Thornton will NOT be included on the list.

 

5) MIKE SMITH

What a journey it’s been for Mike Smith. The 40-year-old’s closest sniff to the Cup came back in 2012 when he led the Coyotes to the Western Conference Final (which they ultimately lost to the Kings). If he could find a way to stand on his head and take the Oilers to the promised land, it would certainly be a story for the ages.

Although Game 1 wasn’t a great start…

 

4) ARTEMI PANARIN

One of the NHL’s most likeable players, Panarin could solidify himself as one of the very best of his era with a Stanley Cup. He may have started his NHL career late but a ring would help solidify his place in the Hall of Fame one day (although there’s a good chance he makes it without one). The Breadman led the Rangers with 96 points in 75 regular season games and is the unquestioned leader, at least offensively, of that team.

 

3) NATHAN MACKINNON

Speaking of solidifying legacies… it seems like only a matter of time before MacKinnon adds a Stanley Cup to his. The Avalanche have looked almost unstoppable in the playoffs and the 27-year-old has cruised to eight points of his own through six games so far. With a career average of 1.375 points per game in the playoffs, MacKinnon sits third all-time for players with over 50 games played behind Wayne Gretzky (1.837) and Mario Lemieux (1.607).

Wow.

 

2) CLAUDE GIROUX

G has waited a longggg time to get back to the Big Dance . The newly acquired cat lost out on a chance to win his first back in 2010 with the Flyers (who could forget Patrick Kane’s epic game-winner?) and has logged over 1,000 regular season games to his name, so a part of you has to be cheering for the guy.

Right?!

With Florida down 2-0 heading back to Tampa, it’s not looking good. But who knows?!

 

1 ) CONNOR MCDAVID

The thought of Connor McDavid going his whole career without winning a Stanley Cup is unsettling and although it’s far too early to accept that as a reality… let’s just get it over with and see him get number one. He’s playing out of his mind and is the clear leader for the Conn Smythe, even with his team down 1-0 in the battle of Alberta. There’s still plenty of hockey left, but just do us all a favour. Connor!

So… which of these players would you like to see win their first most?