Philadelphia Flyers center Claude Giroux won the EA Sports NHL13 Cover Vote. By this time next year, he's hoping to have won a lot more than that.
Giroux wasn't among the National Hockey League finalists for this year's Hart Trophy and his team wasn't able to advance past the New Jersey Devils in the second round of this year's playoffs. But, the breakout season that this brilliant 24-year-old produced sent a loud message to the hockey world.
'G' will be a force on the ice for years to come.
G force
With the NHL draft almost upon us, it's always worthwhile to appreciate past positive amateur selections that have been made. Giroux's selection by the Flyers, in the first round of the 2006 draft, has proven to be one of the team's best.
The Ontario native didn't need much developmental time before he played his first few games for the Flyers in the 2007-08 season. He was promoted to the big club for good after he scored 34 points in 33 games through the first half of the 2008-09 season for the Philadelphia Phantoms in the American Hockey League.
Giroux has always increased his regular season offensive output, scoring 27 points in 42 games in 2008-09, 47 points in 82 games in 2009-10, 76 points in 82 games in 2010-11 and 93 points in 77 games last season. He has also amassed 55 points in 50 playoff games over four combined postseasons in his NHL career.
What seemed to be a minor concussion prevented number 28 from playing another full season in 2011-12. After someone misses time due to a head injury, an awareness will surely linger regarding any similar incidents and how they might impact that person's life and career.
Line chemistry
There's no doubt that the chemistry that existed between Giroux, Jaromir Jagr and Scott Hartnell made the Flyers top line what it was last season.
We we soon learn if number 68 can reach an agreement on another one-year pact to keep him in Philadelphia next season. Due to payroll matters, his own groin injury issues and age, this will be a tough judgment call for general manager Paul Holmgren to make.
There are various players who could replace Jagr's point production. But, no one could fully assume the unique mentor role that he served in last season.
A balanced view
I can tell you from being in the Flyers locker room that Giroux is always affable and takes care of business.
I'm very optimistic that his personality will continue to blend with his physical talent, thereby making those around him that much better. As such, winning the fan vote for a video game cover obviously shouldn't be the last recognition that he will receive in his career.
No matter how great the star, every Stanley Cup-winning result happens because of a strong front office, consistent coaching, sound goaltending, a steady defense, many offensive contributors and other important variables all falling into place at the right time.
As long as he's able to remain healthy, Giroux will star in his winning ice role again next season. If enough of his teammates do the same, 'G' and the Flyers might have a chance to win that silver chalice outside of any digital reality.
Sean O'Brien is based in the Philadelphia region. He has written professionally for over two decades and is currently a Featured Contributor for Yahoo! You can follow him on Twitter @SeanyOB and also read his daily Sports Blog: Insight.
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