Jordan Staal's Conn Smythe win solidifies uniqueness of his postseason

At the advanced age of 37, Jordan Staal enjoyed a magical postseason that solidified his place in NHL history. Staal led the Carolina Hurricanes to the franchise's second Stanley Cup title, defeating the Vegas Golden Knights in six games in a series that ended on Sunday night. 

The championship win not only etched Staal's name on Lord Stanley's Cup for the second time in his 20-year career, but secured multiple records for the longtime Hurricane. 

Staal, who started his career playing behind two legends as the third line center on the Pittsburgh Penguins, added Conn Smythe winner as playoff MVP to his resume. 

Jordan Staal's Conn Smythe postseason is one of the most unique in NHL history 

However, Staal's Conn Smythe run is unique based on why he was awarded with the high honor. Staal earned the award due to his two-way ability, his success in face-offs and his clutch goal scoring touch that led to getting the puck in the net in five-straight Stanley Cup Final games. 

Despite his overall impact, Staal only registered 12 points in Carolina's 19 playoff games. His lower total marks a new standard for the fewest points by a forward as the Conn Smythe winner since the NHL's postseason moved to four rounds. The 16 put up by the late Claude Lemieux from the New Jersey Devils' 1995 Stanley Cup win was the previous low.