Who Will be This Year's Playoff Hero?

Could We See Shane Doan Back In Winnipeg?

Jaroslav Halak. Antii Niemi. Sammy Pahlson. Cam Ward. Dustin Byfuglin. Those names come to mind when thinking of past playoff hero's for their teams. Only problem is that other then Byfuglin and possibly Ward, they have had mediocre seasons afterwards. Niemi led his team to the 2010 finals, but was shaky. This year his San Jose Sharks are a serious contender for the cup, but it’s not been because of his play.

Here are some players who might come up big for their teams this spring:

Carey Price (Montreal): Halak’s performance last season is still fresh in the minds of all people. Especially Price. He was demoted to backup after bad play forced Montreal to use Halak, who played outstanding. There is pressure on Carey to perform. After winning game one against Boston, though, some may think Halak has returned. Just in a #31 jersey.

Jordan Staal (Pittsburgh): With injuries to Crosby and Malkin, the Penguins have a lot of work to do, with little offense. Formerly a 3^rd line center, Staal has been forced to play big minutes and produce points for the battered Pittsburgh squad. If Staal doesn’t perform, who will?

Joe Thornton (San Jose): This can apply to all of the Sharks, but this player in general needs a Cup. The former 1997 first rounder has been the Sharks best player since getting 125 points in 2005-2006, his first year with the club. San Jose has not played well in the Post-season the last few years, so anything less than a cup is a complete failure.

Shane Doan (Phoenix): This team needs leadership. They have been through so much in previous years, and this may be the end. If they don’t get fans QUICK, they are done. Winnipeg is knocking on the door. The Coyotes need to play like it’s the end, because, in reality, it probably is the end.

Roberto Luongo (Vancouver): Vancouver’s time has come. 40 years. Luongo has won at every level, except the NHL. Think there’s is pressure on everybody to repeat this seasons success. Roberto needs to step it up. His playoff performances have......been less then stellar.

Roman Hamrlik (Montreal): The defence in Montreal has taken a huge hit this season. Half the NHL is there defence. With no Gorges or Markov, the time is now for Roman to step it up. He may never have a chance again to go far. His high salary will not get much interest this summer unless the potential UFA steps up to the plate.


Patrice Bergeron (Boston): Bergeron hasn't exactly been the player all Bruins fans were hoping for. Boston has a strong team this time around. Even without Marc Savard. But if Boston doesn't go far....... They need to make some moves. Bergeron needs to step his game up.