A couple nights ago it was like someone had died. I understand everyone mourning the loss of Giguere. All the sports writers on the Duck Calls radio show commented on what a gentleman he was, especially to the media. Believe it. Although I was an entertainment reporter for 15 years for the Register and the Times, and interviewed celebs from Salma Hayek and Halle Berry to Kevin Smith and a lotta has-beens, I had never talked to any athletes on ice except for Michelle Kwan. So, as a hockey writer I am pretty much a nobody. But the few times I did get to speak to Giguere he was very gracious anyway. So I know everything they said about him was true.
Still, let's not forget this is Hiller's time. He's more than earned it. Did you see the way he played against Detroit tonight? One goal he let it. One lousy goal. And at times they were peppering him. I'm so glad that pressure of 'win and you're in' has been lifted from both these guys. Did anyone notice that both Hiller and Giguere pitched shut-outs the second that was over? Good luck to both of them, and I think the fans are ready to move on judging from the incredible cheers Hiller got tonight.
The best part was seeing Hiller look so happy after the game. He was exhausted, but not too tired to remember to thank the fans. His teammates were grateful too. That famous Getzy grin, delivered with a wee sideways cock of the head said, "You're the man!" to Hiller as he made his way to the locker room. Sometimes it's the little things that speak volumes. Getzy's gesture showed that one more piece has snapped into place for us. Now let's kick ass against the Kings tomorrow night.—Anne Valdespino