Don Cherry Makes a Heartbreaking Announcement to Hockey Fans

Cherry took the opportunity to blast the Conn Smythe Trophy going to the wrong player

During his final show, Cherry did not mince words as he expressed his view about the burning issue: the Conn Smythe Trophy selection.

Cherry was dismayed that playoff MVP consideration was not given to veteran forward Brad Marchand, contending that he was overlooked for teammate Sam Bennett.

Cherry gave credit to Marchand's performance and leadership during Florida's Stanley Cup run.

'Well, I thought Marchand was pretty good. Sure, you give it to both of them?'

- Don Cherry

His co-host and son, Tim Cherry, agreed with Don's opinion but pointed out that the Conn Smythe usually goes to the top goal scorer in the postseason, and that was Bennett. The physical forward had 15 goals, five more than Marchand's 10.

Marchand was acquired by Florida close to the trade deadline and racked up 51 regular-season points with Boston and Florida combined. In his 23 playoff games, he had decent numbers but could not keep up with Bennett's runaway pace.

Bennett didn't just lead all playoff scorers with 15 goals; he also set an NHL record with 13 of them away from home.

He had 107 hits, second most in the league, and was the catalyst behind Florida's big-picture goals and physical style of play, especially on the road, where the team tied a league record for road wins at 10. Marchand and Bennett will become unrestricted free agents on July 1.

It is truly a sad day for hockey fans and the 6.5 million people who downloaded and enjoyed listening to Don Cherry. We wish him and his son Tim all the best in whatever they plan to do next.