Traditionally - though not always - a Stanley Cup championship is a must for inclusion in the Hockey Hall of Fame. But in this salary capped era of 30 teams it is tougher than ever to win the Stanley Cup, lately I've been wondering if that is still necessary. Is a strong playoff run resulting in a Stanley Cup Final appearance enough?
Most will say no, a Stanley Cup championship is a must. But Jarome Iginla is as revered for his 2004 Stanley Cup Final run as for his 2 Olympic gold medals and great regular season play. Trevor Linden is absolutely worshipped in Vancouver largely because of his play in the spring of 1994. Could this be a growing trend?
Let's use the Sedins as examples. They have Olympic gold medals, elite NHL status, Hart Trophies and Art Ross Trophies all on their resume. If they win the Stanley Cup this year, their Hall of Fame ticket should almost be punched. The same could be said for Zdeno Chara in Boston. But if they never win a Stanley Cup, will this Stanley Cup appearance be enough?
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