Catching Up With...TJ Galiardi

T.J. Galiardi was a star playmaker in his lone season in the WHL with the Calgary Hitmen in 2007-08.
Now, the 21-year-old Calgary, AB. native is establishing himself as a solid contributor in his first full season in the National Hockey League with the Colorado Avalanche.
Having earned an 11-game stint with the Avalanche last season, Galiardi appears to have cemented a permanent spot in the Colorado lineup this season. The 6’ 2”, 190-lb forward has been a regular on the lineup sheet for the Avs, and has helped contribute secondary scoring for a team that has been one of the most pleasant surprises in the NHL this season.
A gifted offensive player with strong playmaking skills, excellent vision and creativity, and good speed, Galiardi should be a fixture for the NHL Club who drafted him with the 55th overall pick in 2007.
Before making the NHL, though, Galiardi enjoyed a stellar 2007-08 campaign with the Calgary Hitmen. Joining the Hitmen after leaving the NCAA’s DartmouthCollege, Galiardi potted 18 goals and 52 assists for the Hitmen to lead the team to the Central Division and Eastern Conference regular-season titles. He also led all players in post-season scoring with 24 points in 16 games, even though the Hitmen were eliminated in the Eastern Conference final.
After one season in Calgary with his hometown Hitmen, Galiardi moved on to the pro ranks, playing 66 games for the AHL’s Lake Erie Monsters before getting his NHL call-up.
Although he now skates with the world’s best players in the world’s top professional league, Galiardi still considers his time with the Hitmen to be instrumental in getting him to where he is today.
CATCHING UP WITH…T.J. GALIARDI
On his first full season in the NHL…
“It’s been very fun. Obviously, our team has been exceeding expectations by winning so much and staying at the top of the Conference. There is still half a season to play, so we know we have to keep playing hard. Personally, it’s been a good ride. Aside from hurting my ankle a month ago, I’ve been able to have some success and help the team out. It’s been amazing to be able to play at this level and play with and against the best players in the world.”
On his adjustment to the NHL…
“You know, it’s weird to say, but it’s actually easier to play at this level. The guys up here are so smart and skilled that, if you’re in position and in the right place, you’re gonna get the puck. Also, though, if you’re out of position, you’ll find that the puck often ends up in your own net. I have played a few different roles for the team this season, and played all the forward positions. I’m just trying to do what I can to help the team win. If that means chipping in the odd goal and making plays, I’m happy to do that. But, I also want to play strong without the puck and in the defensive zone. Strong defensive play has been what has gotten us to where we are as a team.”
On his journey to the NHL…
“I’ve played in a lot more Leagues than many guys have. I haven’t been on the same team twice in the last four years. I think I’ve tried to take things from every place I’ve played and every coach I’ve played for, and it’s helped turn me into the player I am today.”
On life in the NHL…
“First off, it’s a dream come true to be able to play in the NHL. I grew up dreaming of playing in some of these rinks, and now I’m here. It’s a bit surreal, at first, knowing you’re playing against these superstars. Up here, every game means so much and every detail makes such a difference. I’d say the best thing about playing in the NHL is how much fun it is.”
On keeping up with the Hitmen…
“I have a thing on my phone that tells me the scores and provides summaries, so I can see how things are going. I still know a bunch of guys on the team, as well as the coaching staff. It’s nice to be able to keep up with how things are going.”
On his development in the WHL…
“It was probably the biggest year, development-wise, of my career. I went from playing 30 games in the NCAA to playing 90 games, including playoffs, in the WHL. It gets you prepared for the schedule and travel you face in the NHL. Also, having three coaches in Calgary who played in the NHL really helped in teaching you the little things you need to know. We had a great season and a great team in Calgary, although it didn’t end the way we wanted. But, it was a huge step for me to have that year in the WHL.”
Jesse Watts
whl.ca