Claude Giroux, MVP?

Am I the only one surprised when I hear that a guy with a name like, “Claude Giroux” isn’t from Quebec? (Photo “courtesy” of NHLSnipers.com)

Before 2008, you would have been more likely to hear, “Claude Giroux, Esquire.”

Because, frankly, if we were as shallow and pretentious as we normally were, it would be shocking to see Claude Giroux‘s name on the Hart Trophy at season’s end – even if he completely deserved it. The guy who skates funny, shoots awkwardly, and always looks like he has the puck on a string (and not in a good way) is currently the best two-way player in the NHL (yes, take notice Mr. Datsyuk and Madame Toews).

Not only that, but he also just won TSN’s award for the best Movember mustache. The only man in North America with a better duster was Kolby Solinsky.
With 31 points, he’s one off Phil Kessel for the NHL’s points lead. With 14 goals, he’s two off Steven Stamkos and said Kessel for the NHL’s scoring lead.
And, more than that, he dominates games like nobody else does – at least right now. He plays the power play, the penalty kill and (most important) even strength. He scores big goals (like the overtime winner he potted tonight) and he’s the most likely player of any on the willing and able Philadelphia Flyers team he plays for to make an end-to-end, game-ending rush for a thrilling notch on his belt.

That’s right… Claude Giroux, MVP.