TIER ONE: THE BIG THREE<\/strong><\/p>\n Alexander Ovechkin<\/strong><\/p>\n Sportsbook odds: +200<\/p>\n Clearly the man to beat after winning the award the last two years, Ovechkin is the best all-around player on the planet. He can score from anywhere with his laser of a shot, but he still takes smart shots; he can stickhandle through an entire team; he can devastate defensemen with his heavy forecheck. Best of all, he plays the game with an infectious joy. He\u2019s a rock-solid MVP pick.<\/p>\n Evgeni Malkin<\/strong><\/p>\n Sportsbook odds: +400<\/p>\n Malkin has the skill to match Ovechkin, possessing great size, goal-scoring ability and offensive instincts. Playing alongside Sidney Crosby (at least on the power play), he\u2019s a good bet to win the scoring title this season. However, the MVP is about the player most valuable to his team, and Crosby and Malkin diminish each other\u2019s individual value, however unfair that is.<\/p>\n Sidney Crosby<\/strong><\/p>\n Sportsbook odds: +500<\/p>\n With his speed, athleticism and unparalleled vision, Crosby may still have the biggest career upside of any player in the game today. It\u2019s crazy to remember he\u2019s still only 22 years old, several years away from his prime. The sky\u2019s the limit for him, but he\u2019s less likely to win the MVP sharing the spotlight with Malkin in Pittsburgh.<\/p>\n TIER TWO: MAJOR CONTENDERS<\/strong><\/p>\n Pavel Datsyuk<\/strong><\/p>\n Sportsbook odds: +2000<\/p>\n Datsyuk has one key advantage over the over MVP candidates \u2013 bigtime defensive prowess to accompany his offensive gifts. He\u2019s a true shutdown center, using his speed and positioning to stymie opponents\u2019 top forwards. He\u2019s a lock to at least warrant MVP consideration late in the year.<\/p>\n Ryan Getzlaf<\/strong><\/p>\n Sportsbook odds: +2500<\/p>\n He may be the Western Conference\u2019s premiere power forward. He\u2019s a giant but freakishly agile for his size, he\u2019s a leader and he uses his big frame to protect the puck well. Don\u2019t be surprised if he hits the 100-point mark this season.![\"Sports](\"http:\/\/www.bodogaffiliate.com\/resources\/ca-banners\/sportsbook\/square\/250x250\/250x250h-sportsbook.gif\")
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