It’s been a very difficult year for the Lethbridge Hurricanes. Earlier in the season, the team fired both the head coach and general manager, but despite renewed optimism the team still sits dead last in the Western Hockey League. But if you’re looking for a bright spot, look no further then Giorgio Estephan.
Expectations have always been sky-high for the sophomore forward. I suppose it comes with the territory when you’re one of the highest draft choices in franchise history. Now well into his second season, Estephan is finally earning his top spot among the top forwards in the WHL.
“He’s really, really played well.”
Said Hurricanes Head Coach Peter Anholt
“I only know what I’ve seen since I’ve been here, but he’s been as good as anybody in the league.”
Estephan had a more modest assessment of his play.
“I think the hockey gods are on my side a little bit. a little bit of luck and confidence to all those things have helped me play a little bit better, here and there.”
But there’s nothing lucky about it. After putting up just four points in his first twenty games, Estephan has caught fire. Since the beginning of November the 18-year-old has been nearly unstoppable. Piling up 29 points in his last 22 games.
His captain Jamal Watson has played close attention to Estephan since he entered the WHL, and knows his grown into a special player.
“He really decided that he needed to be a difference maker for this team, he doesn’t say much but when he goes out there, he leads by example. when he does talk though, people do listen, because he’s mature beyond his years.”
Estephan’s performance is coming at a time when many other high draft picks have already asked out of Lethbridge. Including two top five picks from the 2011 draft in Ryan Pilon and Reid Duke. But amidst players leaving and franchise turmoil, Estephan decided to stay.
“Staying here, even with everything that has happened, that was one of my main goals.”
Said Estephan.
“I mean, just to push through it and help strive to make the team better.”
The Hurricanes are clearly in a rebuild and Estephan is turning into a premier forward to build around.
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