Playoff hockey centres around the team concept, but within the framework of each club are individuals who make the machine work. Here's our take on players getting it done and others who have more to give after the opening two games of the North Division semifinal:

Moose

Performers

Cory Schneider: The rookie was close to perfect giving up a pair of blameless goals in the opener, then nothing through close to 50 minutes of play in Game 2. Schneider was forced to leave due to leg cramps and Drew MacIntyre came on to earn the Game 2 win in overtime. Schneider said Sunday that he'll be ready to go Tuesday in Game 3.

Nathan McIver/Max Fortunus: Tough to pick between these two as Manitoba's best defenders. They've been poised, physical and smart.

Mike Keane: Check that birth certificate. The 40-year-old played a load of minutes and was tireless while killing penalties. Keane continues to be the ultimate playoff performer.

Spectators

Brad Moran: Manitoba's top playmaker misses his finisher, but don't expect Jason Jaffray to enter this series just yet. Moran has worked hard but hasn't had the offensive impact the Moose need from him.

Rick Rypien: The effort is always there, but not the results to this stage. Rypien can be a game-changer with his energy and passion. Still waiting.

Alex Bolduc: The big winger looked to be coming alive in Game 2. The Moose need Bolduc to hit, score and eat minutes.

Crunch

Performers

Karl Goehring: The tiny goaler has been Syracuse's best player and has come up with big stops at key moments.

Gilbert Brulé: Hasn't come up with much offence yet, but it's only a matter of time. The best skater in this series with a willingness to bang. Fun to watch and a threat at all times.

Marc Methot: Big, mobile and smart. He's been the best of a defensive group that includes dandies like Duvie Westcott and Clay Wilson. Plays hard from whistle to whistle and can control the game. Can't say enough here. He's everything a team wants from its No. 1 D.

Spectators

Jon Mirasty: Just four shifts in two games. Aside from his laughable pre-game antics, has done nothing. Crunch coach Ross Yates must know something we don't, because this is a curious lineup inclusion.

Alexandre Picard: Has been good when he's stuck to hockey, but his unsportsmanlike penalty in Game 2 resulted in the Moose going up 2-0 in the second period. Foolish, foolish, foolish.

Brett Motherwell: Talked some trash about Cory Schneider prior to the series and hasn't backed it up with any game of his own. Chirp if you like, but be ready to back it up.