»There was a lot of debate about Connor McDavid not coming on-ice for the Conn Smythe Trophy presentation. Apparently, he did agree to do it, but before it was presented, he went into the Oilers room to address his teammates. That was so emotional he either didn't want to leave or was in no headspace to leave.»
The hockey world was divided over McDavid's absence from the trophy presentation. Notably, JS Giguere, who in 2003 was the last player to win the Conn Smythe on a losing team, criticized McDavid's decision, calling it disrespectful. Such reactions only added to the emotionally charged atmosphere surrounding the event.
Losing a Game 7 in the Stanley Cup Final is a devastating blow for any team. For the Oilers, it marked the culmination of a season where the team's depth and talent had shone brighter than ever, making the loss even more poignant. McDavid's choice to stay with his team in those moments speaks volumes about his priorities—team unity over individual recognition.
With the resilience shown this season, there is a strong belief among fans and analysts alike that the Oilers are on the cusp of greatness. The team's core has matured significantly, blending leadership with skill in high-pressure situations. As the team looks to make strategic enhancements during the offseason, the focus is clear: preparing for another deep playoff run and potentially securing a Stanley Cup victory.
With the lessons learned from this playoff journey, and the hope of better outcomes, perhaps next time McDavid will have the opportunity to accept the Conn Smythe Trophy under happier circumstances.
Source: Elliotte Friedman
There was a lot of debate about Connor McDavid not coming on-ice for the Conn Smythe
