While many will fixate on the top scorers for MVP, as always I think it’s important to look a little deeper. Obviously the top scorers this season—Colorado’s Shoyo Hinata (73 points through X games), Detroit’s Sconnie McHits (71 points through 59 games), and Maine’s Viktor Krunk (71 points through 60 games)—will be in the discussion. I think any of them could be great choices for the league’s most outstanding player.

There are two names in particular that really jump out to me. From Maine, while many will fixate on Krunk’s 71 points, I think their goalie, Adam Rage, is the frontrunner for the Cedric Robinson (best goalie) and a dark horse for MVP. He leads the league in save percentage (0.921) and GSAA (19.66), while also sitting a comfortable 4th in wins (25) and 5th in GAA (2.53). He hasn’t played as many games as some of the other standout goalies, but I think his 25-8-1 record is impressive enough (especially in comparison to the fall of Rusty Remao, MET’s other goalie) to deserve a look for MVP.

Elsewhere, I’m really impressed by what Detroit’s McHits has done so far. He leads the entire league with 40 goals and is tied for 2nd with 71 points. He is carrying the Falcons’ revitalized roster offensively; 2nd place for goals (26) and points (56) are dramatically back of the 4th year winger. It’s a matter of time before this Seattle prospect is burning up the SHL.