Eric Florchuk will be relied upon heavily this season by the Giants. Last season after being acquired by the Giants, Florchuk produced 33 points in 25 games. The former Blade is ready for bubble life and looks to add a division banner to his resume during his final WHL season.
Some quick hands down low for @Capitals prospect Eric Florchuk! pic.twitter.com/27c57F68Gu
— Vancouver Giants (@WHLGiants) February 10, 2020
Living in the bubble:
When Florchuk found out the season was approved to start, he was excited. “It was a long time to wait. It was very exciting but at the same time, we are grateful that we can play.” The Giants have been in Kamloops for the last two weeks and are finally hitting the ice for practice after quarantine. The bubble is a unique circumstance but Florchuk is ready for the challenge.
“It’s different for sure. The first few days we were in quarantine but we had team activities to help move the day along quicker. Now that we have been able to be with guys and get on the ice more and more, it’s been great. It’s better now that we are out of isolation and quarantine.”
Ready to produce:
With players like Milos Roman and Bowen Byram gone, Florchuk will be relied upon heavily this season to lead the team offensively. He had success with the Giants last year averaging 1.32 points per game for Vancouver last year. If Florchuk can produce at a similar level, this team will have a special season. His unique blend of skill, size, and speed should allow the now 21-year-old to succeed not just at even strength, but on the powerplay.
The powerplay is going to be a crucial factor for the Giants. Teams are giving up over four powerplays per game on average so far this season. We should not expect anything different from the BC Divison when they start. If the trend continues, it means the Giants will get around 100 powerplays. This is where I believe Florchuk can really shine. 20 of his 33 points last season with the Giants came on the powerplay. He is able to find open teammates throughout the zone, and create scoring opportunities with the extra man. If the powerplay continues to click like it did last season, Florchuk could be among the top powerplay point producers in the league.
Projection:
Florchuk is going to have a great season.
The Giants have one of the best offensive teams in the division so do not be surprised if you see Florchuk’s name near the top of the league leader board by the end of the season. A 40-point season is not out of the realm of possibility. It will be a tough season, but Florchuk is ready to help lead this skilled group to a division championship.
