In 2000, Scott Stevens won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the Stanley Cup Playoffs MVP, leading the New Jersey Devils to their second Stanley Cup championship. Renowned for his physical presence and leadership, Stevens anchored the defense and helped shut down opponents' best players, embodying the team's resilience and tenacity throughout its successful playoff run. In Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Florida Panthers, Stevens led a 2-on-1 rush up the ice in the third period. After passing the puck to John Madden, Stevens received it back, moved it to his backhand, and tucked it five-hole past the netminder for the game-winning goal. In Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Stevens made his presence felt by delivering a big hit that immediately stopped the Maple Leafs' rush. His defensive contributions throughout the 2000 NHL Playoffs were crucial to the Devils' success. In Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Dallas Stars, Stevens scored the eventual game-winner. After receiving a drop pass from Jay Pandolfo, Stevens teed up and blasted a shot that eluded the netminder. The Devils would eventually clinch the series in six games and Stevens tied for the League lead in plus/minus (+9).