JT Miller discloses special reasoning behind Phillip Di Giuseppe's Game 5 performance

By Anjum Rajonno

Modified May 17, 2024 11:00 GMT

Canucks fourth-liner forward Phillip Di Giuseppe scored a crucial game-tying goal in the intense second period of the Oilers vs. Canucks Game 5 in the Stanley Cup second-round playoffs on Thursday. Di Giuseppe missed Games 3 and 4 due to ‘personal reason,’ which was later revealed to be the birth of his child.

In the post-game interview, Vancouver Canucks alternate captain J.T. Miller praised Di Giuseppe's performance when asked about the performance of Di Giuseppe's line and how their effort boosted the team.

“Well, he's got the baby legs, it's a real thing,” Miller said (at 6:03 in the video). "And, uh, swear it's a real thing, I swear I've seen it, like, a lot now where guys come in and play their best game. Does something to you or your brain, and he was unbelievable.”

He praised Di Giuseppe's line for generating significant energy and noted that their strong play and effective forechecking were ‘contagious,' leading to sustained pressure and making the group difficult to handle.

After the game, Captain Quinn Hughes handed the Game 5 puck to Phillip Di Giuseppe, giving him the honor of adding it to their Stanley Cup puck board.

“Having a baby boy was unbelievable but that was the cherry on top boys," Di Giuseppe said.

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Phillip Di Giuseppe opens up on scoring as a new dad

In the post-game interview, Phillip Di Giuseppe expressed gratitude after scoring a crucial goal in the team's win. He credited his teammates for their exceptional play and how their efforts helped him succeed on the ice.

When asked about whether it was a boy or a girl, Di Giuseppe revealed it was a baby boy. He then mentioned the challenges they had to go through as a couple during his wife’s complicated pregnancy.

"It's been a battle of nine months for her. Obviously, with my job, I’ve been away a lot, and she’s been in the hospital a lot. We’ve had a lot of family coming in and out to support us. Like I’ve said before, it takes a village, and it’s a blessing we got one,” Di Giuseppe said.

He appreciated the support from the Canucks, who allowed him to be with his family. Di Giuseppe spoke about the energy he drew from the fans and the atmosphere of the building, which helped him stay motivated.

Next up, the Canucks will play the Oilers at Rogers Place on Saturday, where they will have a chance of sealing the series in six games.