Tavares would be my vote this year. Crosby is by far the best player in the league, but the time off just brought him back to earth enough to let others get consideration. Had he played a full season, Crosby would be unanimous choice for first, second and third nomination. no point putting anyone else on the ballot.
Tavares is an unbelievable talent. Having watched him live earlier this week against the Pens, it made me appreciate him even more. Such a focal point of all offensive flow, and a focal point of all defensive attention. Say what you want about Tavares' linemates being good/bad, but I will tell you that any play Tavares was pinned or neutrlized, that line just died.
Tavares as a Hart nomination reminds me of when Iginla was up for the same award. Not enough talent around him to be a hands down winner, but too damn good and too damn productive to be ignored.
Make no mistake the Isles would be far out of the dance without Tavares. And the Long Island faithful know who deserves the hardware - JT was cheered with "MVP" chants all night long during breaks in play or after he made something happen on the ice.
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