The Vancouver Giants are officially halfway through the 2021-22 season. Through 34 games this season, they have a 15-17-2-0 record and currently sit seventh in the conference. With the first half done, today, we give out some mid-season awards to honour those players that really shined in the first half.
MVP- Justin Sourdif
Sourdif was the lifeblood of this team. He put up 32 points in 24 games this season and was selected to Team Canada at the World Juniors. His impact is going to be hard to replace the rest of the season but the Giants do have a few players who should fill the void.
Best Defenceman- Alex Cotton
Since coming to the Giants, Alex Cotton has been one of the best players on the team. He leads all defenceman with 21 points in 23 games and is one of only six defenceman across the league with over 100 shots on net. As for his overall season, he is tied for the league lead in goals with 11 (seven with the Giants) and ranks 13th in points. He is going to be a key piece for the Giants if they want to make a late run here, not just on the defensive side, but also the offensive side.
Unsung Hero- Connor Horning
The 20-year-old defenceman is having one of his best seasons in the WHL with seven goals and 18 points through 30 games. He also leads all players in power play goals scored in a Giants jersey this year with four and has been a major part of the team’s penalty kill. Even if he is not putting up points, Connor Horning is blocking shots, throwing hits and doing everything he can to ensure the Giants walk away with a win. He has been fantastic this season and is really stepping up in his final year in the WHL.
Best Newcomer- Jesper Vikman
Jesper Vikman has developed into one of the best goaltenders in the WHL. He is constantly making highlight reel saves and is a major reason the Giants had so much success early in the season. So far, he has 12 wins on the season and carries a .903% save percentage. He is most likely the team’s MVP after Sourdif as he continues to dominate night after night.
Most Exciting Player- Justin Lies
Justin Lies, who is expected to be drafted in this upcoming NHL Entry Draft is a wrecking ball on the ice. He is never afraid to mix it up with the opposition and when he calls for the puck, everyone can hear it in the arena. Most importantly, he looks like he is having fun. Every goal celebration is exciting and the way he props up his teammates is fun to watch. Whoever drafts him is getting a very special player, that is for sure.
Exciting Times In Giant Land
With half the season left, the Giants have an exciting team that could do some damage come playoff time. With players like Fabian Lysell, Zack Ostapchuk, Ty Halaburda, Mazden Leslie and Fabian Lysell all expected to have big second half’s, each game should turn into must watch hockey. The road to the playoffs will be tough, but this Giants team should be ready for whatever challenges are thrown at them.
