ARE THE BELFAST GIANTS THE 2014 EIHL ALL-STAR TEAM – TELL ME I’M WRONG.
With the end of season approaching, the Ice Hockey Journos, owners and big-wigs get to vote for their first and second all-star lines, and I’m here to tell you why I think the Giants can fill all six spots.
It’s pretty obvious that they are the class of the league. They have an incredible depth, with a ‘third’ line that can run through teams, and there’s a strong case for them being the best all time team in the Elite league.
But unlike the Panthers of last year, they’ve done it without the stand-out superstars of the likes of Ling, Fox, Graham and Francis, so maybe their key players are a little less obvious in the overall quality mix.
So why am I picking out all six for my all-star team from the Giants? Let me explain:
Net Minder : Stephen Murphy – He’d be the first choice N/M in any Elite league team because a> He’s got a 2.25 GAA and .923 save percentage and b> He’s British. So despite what Simmsey said a few years ago, you can win with a Brit at the back, but it has to be this one.
Defence : Calvin Elfring – Veteran D-man straight from the DEL, an offensive defenceman, who likes stepping forward into the rush. The Elite league’s second highest points scorer from defence. Originally drafted by the Nordiques, so you can tell he’s got all the experience you need.
Defence : Cody Brookwell – To allow Elfring to be so effective you need a Giant patrolling the blue-line, and that’s what you’ve got in Brookwell - 200lbs of stay-at-home D, who can chip in with the odd goal and PK too. Straight from the ECHL, the 27 year old is having a stand-out year.
Left-Wing : Jeff Szwez – There’s something about this man and Belfast. He’s back again and having another career year points-wise. This guy’s got the moves, and when he leans into a shot it stays hit. 32 goals puts him in the top ten scorers, and we know he’s got even more in him. Probably the most influential player in our league back in 2010, and this year’s he’s got better support.
Centre : Dustin Whitecotton – The silky centreman who tosses out the assists for fun. Came from the DEL with Elfring, and has responded to getting more ice-time in this classy first-line. Great at the face-off circle, and with the size of his team-mates he’s got all the protection he needs. Does he remind anyone else of a (slightly) younger Tony Hand?
Right-Wing : Can I cheat and have Kevin Saurette, I’m sure he can play Righty. He was a key addition to the line-up last year, once they freed up an import slot by releasing Champagne. Another one with German experience, and a power forward with great size and speed. Oh he’s also scored 33 goals and 35 assists too so far.
If you’re not allowing that, then how about Keefe (heartbeat of the team) or Higgins (Belfast Datsyuk) on Right-Wing – there’s something to start the all-star second line with.
These guys aren’t littered with bags of NHL and AHL experience, but the Chemistry is great, and you’d struggle to put anyone else in the line before them.
That’s why you need to come down to Sheffield tomorrow – quality across the ice, and maybe, just maybe a chance to see their 28 game unbeaten run finally come to an end, if the Steelers get it on.
Tell me I’m wrong.
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