5 Unexpected Stars Of The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs

Sunday, May 11, 2025 , , , ,

Toronto Maple Leafs left wing Max Pacioretty

Every year, the Stanley Cup playoffs introduce us to unlikely heroes—players who rise to the occasion when it matters most. 

While superstars like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews dominate the headlines, this postseason has been defined by a handful of under-the-radar players stepping into the spotlight.

Here are five names that weren’t on anyone’s radar before the 2025 playoffs—but have since become vital to their teams’ success:


Corey Perry, RW, Edmonton Oilers

Love him or hate him, Perry has been a revelation for the Oilers. At nearly 40 years old, the ageless winger has defied expectations, slotting seamlessly onto Edmonton’s top line alongside McDavid and Draisaitl—forming the so-called "Hart Line" of former MVP winners.

With five goals and seven points in nine games, Perry has been a consistent force, even notching a vintage two-goal performance in a tight loss to Vegas. In doing so, he became the oldest Oiler ever to record a multi-goal playoff game, breaking a record that stood since 1984. As analysts have joked, "Corey Perry might just be hockey’s Benjamin Button."



Mason Appleton, C, Winnipeg Jets

Known more for his defensive reliability than his offensive flair, Appleton has shattered expectations with a breakout postseason. The 29-year-old forward has racked up seven assists in the opening round, showcasing playmaking ability few knew he possessed.

His three-assist night was a turning point, proving he’s more than just a depth piece—he’s now a driving force on Winnipeg’s second line. 


Mikko Rantanen, RW, Dallas Stars

Rantanen has always been elite, but his 2025 playoff performance has been next-level. In a storybook twist, he delivered a Game 7 hat trick to eliminate his former team, the Colorado Avalanche—a feat never before seen in NHL history.

Rumors swirl that he had extra motivation, with insiders suggesting he signed long-term in Dallas just to haunt the Avs for years to come. Leading the Stars in goals, assists, and clutch moments, Rantanen has cemented himself as one of the game’s most lethal scorers—and Dallas as a serious Cup threat.



Logan Thompson, G, Washington Capitals

After losing his starting job in Vegas, Thompson arrived in Washington with little fanfare. Yet, he’s been nothing short of spectacular, posting a .922 save percentage and a 2.26 GAA while facing a barrage of shots.

Alongside Tom Wilson, Thompson has been the Capitals’ backbone, stealing games they had no business winning. His calm, composed presence has been the difference-maker for a team defying expectations. 


Max Pacioretty, LW, Toronto Maple Leafs

Injuries had many writing off Pacioretty, but the veteran sniper has silenced doubters with a resurgent playoff run. Seven points in seven games—including three straight multi-point performances—have made him an unexpected X-factor for the Leafs.

No longer just a depth piece, Pacioretty is proving he still has the scoring touch that once made him one of the NHL’s most feared wingers.



Nick Turchiaro-Imagn

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