Photo Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports
Johnny Gaudreau made a stunning debut in the NHL with the Calgary Flames on Sunday, April 13th in Vancouver against the Canucks.
In his post-game interview, Gaudreau was all smiles while holding the puck from his first goal in his very first game with the Calgary Flames. Admittedly, he said that the game was “faster than I expected.” But he kept up just fine alongside his Boston College linemate, Bill Arnold.
Through all the questions and activity from the young player, he admitted that the sheer size of some NHL players was “a little shocking.” But Johnny Hockey kept his shock, expectations, and nervousness in check throughout his first time on NHL ice. He looked like an exhilerated professional as he skated fast, gained puck possession, and found himself in the right place at the right time to score his goal.
He also said that he was “a little nervous” before the game, but it didn’t show on the ice much especially when he scored his first goal. Even during the post-game interview, he wasn’t able to sit still as hockey adrenaline pumped through his veins from all the excitement. As he explained, he took Mike Cammalleri‘s positive words of advice and encouragement onto the ice and thoroughly enjoyed himself.
And that’s what it’s essentially all about – the love of hockey. What we have to remember is that these rookies are kids and they should be enjoying the game above all else. Together, Arnold and Gaudreau seemed to have had a good time in their game against the Canucks and the goal by Gaudreau was an added bonus for him. I look forward to watching more Johnny Hockey next season.
Great job in the final game by the newest member of the Calgary Flames, Johnny Gaudreau!