Why is the Conn Smythe Trophy awarded?

The Conn Smythe Trophy is awarded to the most valuable player during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, making option B the correct choice. This trophy is unique because it specifically recognizes an individual's outstanding performance in the playoff series that culminate in the awarding of the Stanley Cup, rather than on the regular season. The selection is primarily based on a player's excellence, influence on their team’s success, and ability to perform under the intense pressure of playoff hockey.

This trophy emphasizes the significance of individual contributions during the postseason, which can often differ greatly from regular season performance. It reflects a player's ability to retrieve excellent results when it matters most, unlike regular-season accolades that pertain to overall performances across all games in a season. Other options, such as recognizing the best player of the regular season or lifetime achievements, do not pertain to the specific focus of the Conn Smythe Trophy.