We are now in the Stanley Cup Final.Not only we will finally award the Stanley Cup, but we will also award the Conn Smythe award for MVP of the Playoffs.

I’m going to give an unconventional vote. Kevin Bieksa,

During the intermission or half time of most NHL games, it’s pretty typical for everyone to get off their couch and grab a drink or snack.  If you were watching at a pub, that would be the time they turn off the sound of the game, and have their own music. It’s been typically boring.

One man changed  that during this year’s playoffs. Kevin Bieksa.

Now, before you say what about Don Cherry and Coach’s Corner ? Sure, some were entrained. But others were watching with a cringe-worthy fright on what he was going to say. Which name was he going to mispronounce? What off-color, sometimes subtle, but mostly blatant racist thing will he say?  It was time for that to end.

There has been something different and refreshing about Bieksa. Not only does he dress sharp, but he also brings a high level of intelligence and humor. Bieksa discusses the technical aspects of the game with wit and humor. He was able to connect newer hockey fans with longer-term hockey fans. Not only that, but he has also brought allowed a typically very “structured” HNIC panel, some life.

Here are some examples someone posted on YouTube.

One area the NHL has been behind in, is bringing that smarter, younger, hipper voice. Like Randy Moss for the NFL. The TNT panel in the NBA. Bieksa has brought the NHL into the 2020’s.

The biggest thing that Bieksa has done amongst anything else creates a connection.  Perspectives from the likes of Don Cherry, Mike Milbury, and Pierre McGuire have created the perception that the NHL is an old boys club with old school ideas. They seem out of touch with many younger and female fans. Bieksa has brought refreshing life and maturity.

Canucks fans are not the only ones that are happy with Bieksa. He is getting begrudging support from rival fan bases like the Flames and Oiler fans.

Not only is he a clear replacement for what Coach’s Corner was. He’s going to be an improvement. Bieksa’s wit, banter, and insight have been the best thing of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

In this time of the pandemic, and divisiveness, there has been a need for a refreshing voice. Something different. Something intelligent. Bieksa brought it and more.

Not only is he a clear replacement for what Coach’s Corner was. He’s going to be an improvement. Bieksa’s wit, banter, and insight has been the best thing of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.