But wait, not so fast. Giroux is a crafty veteran of 10 pro seasons, with over 700 games played at the AHL level. Yes, Giroux was signed with the intent of playing in Springfield. However, I’m inclined to think if he earns a spot with the Jackets that he’ll gladly accept it.
Incorporating our “Job Fair” format, what follows is how Giroux MIGHT answer the questions if I were on one side of the desk and he were on the other.
Standard Cannon Disclaimer: This series will be presented in the form of a mock job interview. The operative word here is mock. We’re presenting these from the perspective of the player, as if they were applying for a job with the Jackets. The players themselves aren’t involved, so don’t contact the team if you disagree with one of their answers! Thirty players will be interviewed, even existing players. Yes, even Nasher will have to get put through the wringer. We hope you enjoy!
Q) Alexandre, tell us a little about yourself.
A) I just turned 30 years old on June 16th. I was born in Quebec City and had a good junior career in the QMJHL, playing for the Hull Olympiques and the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies. I was drafted in the seventh round, 213th overall in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft by the Ottawa Senators. Since 2004, I’ve played for the New York Rangers, Washington Capitals and Atlanta Thrashers organizations.
Q) Tell us about some intangibles you could bring to the Blue Jackets.
A) I just finished my tenth pro season and I would have to say my intuition, my ability to read plays as well as a knack for being in the right place at the right time have benefitted me and my teammates wherever I’ve played. I’m tall and rangy and I don’t shy away from physical play.
Q) What areas of your game do you think you can improve on?
A) Signing with the Blue Jackets gives me a fresh start. For whatever reason, I’ve not been able to stick in the NHL, even when given the opportunity. To make a mark in the NHL, I need to improve the quickness of my game, and have the best camp that I’ve ever had.
Q) Can you give us some examples of your hockey accomplishments?
A) The last four years especially, have been all positive regarding my career. In January of 2009, I broke Brett Hull’s AHL record for consecutive games scoring a goal, when I scored in 15 games in a row. I was a member of the Hershey Bears back-to-back Calder Cup championship teams in 2009 and 2010. I was the AHL MVP in the 2008-09 season. I’ve been first or second in regular season AHL scoring for the past three seasons. This past season, I was selected as a First Team All Star.