Arrived in the second half of the season with the Oilers, Vincent Desharnais managed to find a place of choice within the formation. The great defenseman will now have the chance to participate in the Stanley Cup playoffs for the first time.
• Read also: Agents, players and scholars speak out: 10 reasons why no Canadian team has won a cup in 30 years
• Read also: No cup for 30 years: it’s inconceivable, according to the last DG who won it in Canada
• Read also: “He never said that in the media”: the ex-spouse of Pat Burns confides in a dark period of the coach after the 1993 playoffs.
“The great Desharnais waited 10 years to live this moment, underlined Vincent Desharnais. I will be ready. I can’t wait in a tabarouette!”
The 6ft, 6in, 216lb colossus loves this time of year. He doesn’t hate rubbing his ears against his opponents in net.
“No matter the league [NCAA, BCHL ou Ligue américaine], my style of play fits well with the playoffs. You have to be ready to make a lot of sacrifices.
“You have to be ready for anything to win. I have this mentality. If it’s blocking a pitch with my face, I don’t mind. I have no problem.
“I will try to help my team achieve the ultimate goal.”
The Quebecer has become an indispensable player for the Oilers on the penalty kill. It is often used with Brett Kulak or Mattias Elkholm during these situations.
In 35 games, he amassed five assists while posting a +15 rating. He did not hesitate to come to the defense of his teammates on a few occasions.
Desharnais is also looking forward to welcoming his parents, who are expected to attend the first two games of the playoffs in Edmonton. Preparations are well underway.
“As soon as we know the schedule for the first round, they will make the necessary arrangements to be present, said the Laval resident. It’s going to be a special moment for them.”
A diary for his memories
Since he started skating in the NHL, Desharnais has written down his ups and downs in a diary. It is at this moment that he realizes his journey of the last few months.
“I write every day,” he said. I am aware of what I am going through. That’s what I wanted.
“I wanted to get here [à Edmonton] and don’t act like a rookie. I wanted to have an immediate impact and I wanted to prove that I belonged here.
After his season, he intends to take time to rest, but also to take stock with a clear head. We can expect the last chapter to be more than positive.