Gaborik a Hart Contender
Pierre LeBrun at ESPN has his mid-season awards, and mentions Rangers forward Marian Gaborik as a finalist for the Hart:
Marian Gaborik, New York Rangers: Could the Rangers score a goal if he weren’t in the lineup?
To state the obvious, the Rangers would be in last place with roughly 20 less goals scored for the season. I say roughly 20 because I am assuming that for goal Gaborik wouldn’t get, someone else would have been able to put the puck in the net. Considering the scoring woes of this team, I wouldn’t be surprised if none of those chances would have been converted though.
The MVP should be just that, the player most valuable to his team. Unfortunately, in every sport, this generally gets ignored, and the player with the most points gets the award. Plain and simple, if Gaborik continues this pace, and the Rangers make the playoffs, Gaborik should be the Hart Trophy winner. No single player would have meant more to his team than Gabby, who has contributed exactly 25% of all Ranger goals this season. The closest teammate to him in points is Vinny Prospal, and most of his assists are on Gaborik goals.
I wouldn’t be surprised, or outraged, if the award went to Alex Ovechkin, Ryan Miller, or Cindy Crosby. All are carrying their respective teams as well.
By Bettman's Nightmare, January 6, 2010 @ 2:47 pm
Don’t forget those assists, too. He creates so many opportunities with his moves and speed.
Dave Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 3:08 pm
Another reason why he should be given more consideration for the Hart. He just deserves it.
Dave Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 3:18 pm
By the way, I like your blog, a lot. I added you to the links on the side here. Keep up the great work!
Bettman's Nightmare Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 4:45 pm
I saw that…much appreciated. Together, we can dream of a league without a Bettman.
By Jeremy, January 6, 2010 @ 3:27 pm
If Gabby wasn’t on this list, than ESPN would lose any of the little credibility they have with the NHL. He’s been, I think, the best player in hockey. He’s single-handedly keeping the Rangers alive.