from Frank Seravalli of TSN,

Sidney Crosby edged Phil Kessel in what may have been the closest vote in the 51-year history of the Conn Smythe Trophy, according to ballots obtained by TSN.

The award, established in 1965 to honour the most valuable player to his team during the Stanley Cup playoffs, is voted on by 18 members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association.

The rotating panel of 18 voters is comprised of a blend of American and Canadian national media, as well as local writers covering the two Stanley Cup finalists.

All 18 voters disclosed their ballots to TSN.ca on the condition of anonymity.

Crosby captured his first Conn Smythe with nine first-place votes. Kessel finished just behind Crosby with seven first-place votes. Kris Letang earned the other two first-place votes.

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