NHL Playoffs: Top Five Goalies Set To Compete For the Conn Smythe Trophy

Until last season, there has always been a lot of focus on goaltending heading into the playoffs. Whether it is glorious performances by the likes of Ken Dryden, Patrick Roy or Martin Brodeur, having a stud between the pipes instantly tips the odds on the spreadsheet. 

However, when the Chicago Blackhawks and Philadelphia Flyers met in the finals last year, that theory was put into question, as Antti Niemi and Michael Leighton competed for the cup. In fact, three of the final four teams were using goalies that started the regular season on the bench.

The result? The offseason instantly became a buyer's market for netminders and we saw a fundamental shift in how teams approach the most important position on the ice.

In fact, if you take a look at the leading save percentage leaders this season you will see an unprecedented number of goalies above .915%.  

So what will all this mean when the games become real? 

I am here to tell you that last season was a bit of an anomaly and those hoping to reach the promised land without elite goalies will perish.

I count down the top five goalies that could compete for the Conne Smythe Trophy.

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