The Kid has his Conn Smythe.
A distinction that eluded the Pittsburgh Penguins captain in his first title-winning campaign in 2009, Sidney Crosby was named the most valuable player of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs for his multifaceted performance, and in leading his franchise to a fourth championship.
Crosby finished in a tie for sixth in postseason scoring with the six goals and 13 assists, trailing teammate Phil Kessel, but his impact went well beyond what's most easily accessible. He was a force in three zones, commanding possession against the opposition's best. He dominated on the dot, saved his best for the biggest moments, and, most importantly, set a championship standard for his teammates.
He scored the overtime winner in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Final, preventing the Penguins from going down 0-2, and claimed two other game-winners. But the lasting moment of his postseason performance will be his play call before an offensive zone draw in overtime in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final, a spontaneous design that resulted in a Conor Sheary winner.
Crosby totaled eight points versus the New York Rangers, two points in Round 2 versus the Washington Capitals, then three goals and five points versus the Tampa Bay Lightning, before recording four assists on the San Jose Sharks, including two in Game 6 Sunday.
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