Chicago Blackhawks' 5 Most Impressive Players During 2013 Playoffs

The Chicago Blackhawks have seen contributions from every single line in the playoffs this year. This kind of depth makes the Blackhawks a team that's hard to beat.

The playoffs have brought out the best in most of the 'Hawks, and there have definitely been a few standout players thus far.

But not all of the standouts are the usual stars like Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane.

Here are the five most impressive Blackhawks players during the playoffs.

5. Kruger Is Killin' It

Marcus Kruger is one of those guys for Chicago who hides under the radar. He isn't talked about much, but he's been a key role player for the 'Hawks, especially in the playoffs.

The Blackhawks' penalty kill has gone a perfect 24-of-24 thanks to Kruger's efforts on the PK. He's always in the right place at the right time and knows how to consume valuable seconds off the clock.

It's not very often that you can be a penalty killer and sport a plus-three rating. Kruger has also contributed offensively for the Blackhawks and has two goals and an assist.

The Swede continues to impress in the playoffs.

4. Oduya Is a Defensive Staple

It's not common that a defenseman is considered one of the top players for a team in the playoffs. 

Johnny Oduya is an exception.

He has the highest plus/minus rating on the team with a plus-seven rating, and he's helped the Blackhawks kill off all 24 penalties.

I guess this type of play could be expected of a defenseman who had a breakout season with the 'Hawks this year.

With two goals and an assist, Oduya has been key for the Blackhawks in both the offensive and defensive zones.

3. Welcome to the Slovak Show

Masterston Trophy nominee Marian Hossa has made the playoffs a time to showcase his veteran skill.

With four goals and three assists in seven games played, Hossa has been the primary producer on the first line with Toews and Brandon Saad.

Hossa also has converted two power-play goals in the playoffs thus far—that's a true feat considering the Blackhawks have a 16.7 percent power-play conversion rate. 

It's nice to see the Slovak persevere in the playoffs after his season-ending injury in last year's postseason.

2. Corey, Corey, Corey!

Corey Crawford was booed in the 2012 playoffs. Thankfully, his play has garnered only cheers—and lots of them—in this year's playoffs.

With a 0.937 save percentage and a 1.64 goals-against average, Crawford continues to own the crease. Crawford made some great saves even in the case of Saturday's 4-1 loss to the Detroit Red Wings.

The Blackhawks will pose a big threat to other Stanley Cup contenders if the Quebec native continues to stay on his game.

1. Patrick Sharp Is Back

Can you believe it? Patrick Sharp scored six goals during the entire regular season. With seven games played in the playoffs, he's matched that number. Sharp has also tallied four assists and has a plus-six rating. 

That's a resurgence if you ask me.

Sharp has been the biggest offensive threat for the 'Hawks in the playoffs. He's skating hard, controlling the puck and making great passes.

With his work ethic, Sharp's the guy who will lead the Blackhawks to the Stanley Cup.