Tim Thomas Becomes First Goalie to Win Conn Smythe Trophy Since 2006, First American to Win Since 1994

Tim Thomas stood on his head for the Bruins the entire season, and that success carried over into the playoffs. Following Game 7 on Wednesday night, Thomas was named the winner of the NHL's Conn Smythe Trophy, the award given to the player determined to be most valuable to his team during the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Thomas is the first goaltender to win the award since Carolina Hurricanes goalie Cam Ward earned the honor in 2006. He is the first American to win the Conn Smythe since former-Bruin Brian Leetch did so as a member of the New York Rangers in 1994, and the first Bruin to win the award since Bobby Orr in 1972.

The 37-year-old netminder broke Dominik Hasek's single-season save percentage record this year while compiling a league-best 2.00 goals against average.

Thomas broke the NHL record for saves during a single postseason, and was instrumental in the Bruins' Stanley Cup run. He allowed only eight goals in seven games.

The award might only be the first that Thomas receives as he is a finalist for the Vezina Trophy, which is awarded to the goalie deemed to be the best at his position during the regular season. Thomas won the distinction in 2009.