Quote:
Originally Posted by Realtor 1
Well to the fans defense, under this team and system he didn't look like a NHL d man on many nights. I think that having Reeves has allowed him to focus on his game a bit more and not have to be the protector, intimidator, game-changing hit kind of player.
He had half the penalty minutes this season as his second lowest season.
Lets also not forget he had 2 assists and no goals (16gp) coming into this game.
|
When Gio got hurt with 25 or so games to go in NJ, his ice time increased dramatically on the stretch run and playoffs that year, and he got statistically better in every category. Basically stepped up big time, showing his character and ability without question when the Flames needed him the most. But it was called a fluke by the stats warriors and the narrative of him being a beer leaguer was back the next season. That was 3 seasons ago.
Role change or not away from enforcer, becoming the trusted penalty killing defenseman in the Stanley Cup final is not the mark of a beer league calibre defencemen.
Bottom line, the guy is about as solid a guy as there is, works his butt off as most pros do, but still gets lazily attached labels by excel sheet warriors.