NHL EDGE stats: Jordan Staal’s case for Conn Smythe Trophy in 2026

Carolina Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal, 37, has emerged as the front-runner for the 2026 Conn Smythe Trophy after tying the NHL record for longest goal streak in a Stanley Cup Final at five consecutive games, a feat previously achieved by only four players including Yvan Cournoyer (1973) and Jean Beliveau (1956). Staal leads the Final series in both high-danger goals (five) and high-danger shots on goal (13), his last five-game goal streak dating back to 2007. Carolina holds a 3-2 series lead over the Vegas Golden Knights heading into Game 6 on Sunday at 8 p.m. ET.