NHL Playoff Predictions 2012: Unsung Heroes Who'll Lead Teams into Round 2

The NHL playoffs have a tendency to make unheralded players into overnight sensations. Whether it's a third-line grinder scoring a crucial overtime goal or an overlooked goalie stepping up to carry a team on his back, the postseason always shines a spotlight on players who usually don't receive it.

Here are three players who will make their presence felt in the opening round by helping push their teams into Round 2. They may never become household names, but they are still extremely important to their respective teams.

Artem Anisimov

Anisimov plays barely over 15 minutes per game for the New York Rangers, but that's more than enough for him to make an impact. He can play in any situation, including special teams, and provides the Rangers with key depth up the middle.

It's players like him who usually have to step up during a playoff run because the top few lines for each team tend to cancel each other out. So a player like Anisimov, who hasn't been relied on to provide many scoring chances during the regular season, will carry a heavier burden now.

The Rangers face off with an Ottawa Senators team that exceeded expectations this season, which will allow him to play without any burden of expectations. Anisimov will ensure the Rangers fend off any upset attempt.

Dan Hamhuis

Hamhuis thrived when given a chance to play an extended offensive role following the departure of Christian Ehrhoff. He scored 14 more points and continued to play solid in his own zone, which helped the Vancouver Canucks claim the Presidents' Trophy.

The Los Angeles Kings were able to steal Game 1 in Vancouver thanks to a couple late goals, but the Canucks aren't going to roll over after a single loss. Look for Hamhuis to ramp up the pressure on Friday night to challenge L.A.'s defense.

Even though losing the first game of a series isn't an ideal scenario for any team, it's less devastating for a team like the Canucks. Hamhuis and Co. should be able to earn home-ice advantage back before eventually taking the series.

Antti Niemi

It seems like every season there's at least one goalie who comes out of the background to lead the team on a surprising playoff run. Don't be surprised if Niemi ends up playing that role for the San Jose Sharks this time around.

The Sharks are no stranger to playoff failure. They are constantly a contender in the Western Conference, but they haven't been able to get over the Stanley Cup hump. With less pressure on them this season, maybe they can finally live up to their talent level.

Niemi had a couple hot streaks during the regular season. If he can rediscover that form in the playoffs, San Jose would suddenly become an extremely dangerous opponent. He should be enough for them to upset the St. Louis Blues in Round 1.