What happened: Jordan Staal was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the Most Valuable Player of the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs following the Carolina Hurricanes' championship victory. The 37-year-old captain led his team to their second title in Staal's postseason was defined by his veteran poise and defensive dominance.

Why it matters: Staal made history as the first player since Jean Béliveau in 1956 to score a goal in each of the first five games of a Stanley Cup Final. His leadership was the backbone of the Hurricanes' run, particularly in neutralizing top-tier opponents throughout the series. Jordan Staal becomes one of the oldest captains to win the trophy while hoisting the Cup.

What to watch: The Hurricanes are expected to announce details for a championship parade in Raleigh shortly. Staal, having reached the of his career at 37, enters the final year of his contract on a historic high.