The 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs have reached the Conference Finals bracket. Several players, such as Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin and Nashville Predators defenseman Ryan Ellis, had crucial roles in getting their respective teams to this stage.
Some, such as Malkin, are established stars accustomed to elevating their play in the postseason. Lesser lights, such as Ellis, are flourishing in the playoff spotlight.
The following is a ranking of the top stars in the 2017 NHL Conference Finals. Individual performance and value to their respective teams factored into this compilation, which also includes a list of honorable mentions.