It’s almost time for NHL betting players to start thinking about the season-ending awards, in particularly, the Conn Smythe Trophy which is awarded to the league’s Most Valuable Player. The top contenders for this award are the league’s top sniper, a brilliant playmaker who happens to be his rival, and a 34-year-old who had a career year.

Alexander Ovechkin, Washington

“Ovie” has made headlines over the year for his boisterous personality, especially for his back-and-forth with Canadian broadcaster Don Cherry. However, Ovechkin had an NHL-leading 55 goals with two games remaining, which has powered the Capitals to a probable No.2 seed in the East. Ovechkin is also second to Malkin in points, and he has his highest assist total since his rookie season. Then there’s the hitting, the goal celebrations and the energy he brings to the team. The Capitals are good, but with Ovechkin, they have a great shot to go far into the postseason, which is why he should be the NHL betting favorite for this award.

Evgeni Malkin, Pittsburgh

The 22-year-old just keeps getting better, and he’s two points up on Ovechkin for the NHL scoring lead. If he has Ovechkin’s passion, he’d be even scarier as he has all the physical tools to dominate every time he steps on the ice. He scores goals, he sets up his teammates, and he has showed more physical play this season, especially when his Penguins meet the Capitals. However, having Crosby, another 100-point player, on his team could hurt his case for the Conn Smythe. Still, sportsbook players should give him a look.

Tim Thomas, Boston

At 34 years young, the late-blooming Thomas had the best campaign of his four-year career, leading the league in GAA and save percentage for the East-leading Bruins. He’s similar to Dominek Hasek in that he’ll do anything to make a save, and it’s nothing to see Thomas flailing around in his crease, possibly without a stick, but he’ll get over to make the save nine times out of 10. Goalies have won three of the last 10 Conn Smythe Trophies, but Thomas will have an uphill climb against Ovechkin and Malkin. Thomas also had Zdeno Chara marshalling a strong defense in front of him, which could cause some voters to go against him. Still, Thomas will probably offer great NHL betting value, so it’s worth a shot.