Hockey News bases its choice on input from GMs and pro scouts.
By DAMIAN CRISTODERO
Published April 7, 2004
It means nothing as far as voting for the Hart Trophy, given to the league MVP by the Professional Hockey Writers Association, or the Pearson, given by the Players Association. But being named MVP by the Hockey News is pretty special.
Well-respected and well-read, especially in Canada, the 57-year-old tabloid named Lightning wing Martin St. Louis its MVP in an issue that hits newsstands Monday.
"It wasn't even close," said senior writer Mike Brophy, who wrote the story. "It was obvious to us."
He said Flames goalie Miikka Kiprusoff, Bruins rookie goalie Andrew Raycroft, Avalanche center Joe Sakic and Flames wing Jarome Iginla, among others, were considered.
St. Louis, 28, was the league's points leader with 94 and also with eight shorthanded goals and 11 shorthanded points. He tied for the lead with 56 assists and at plus-35.
"It's a real testament to this kid's determination," Brophy said. "To never have been drafted, to being let go by (Calgary) and to be a small player in a big-man's world just speaks volumes."
Brophy said the paper made its choice after speaking to general managers and pro scouts.
"And it was pretty universal," he said. "Martin St. Louis did everything for a Lightning team that finished second overall in the NHL. The sense I get is it would be a shock if he doesn't win the Hart."
