With J.S. Giguere out, four goalies will be commanding
attention at Anaheim's training camp.

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Because of an injury to Anaheim goalie J.S. Giguere at training camp, Portland Pirates Coach Kevin Dineen will get a longer-than-expected look at two new goalies. Giguere, who underwent surgery to repair a sports hernia last month shortly after signing a contract extension with Anaheim, isn't ready to practice. That means Swiss-born goalie Jonas Hiller and J.P. Levasseur, a 20-year-old from Victoriaville, Quebec, will get more chances. "It's a good opportunity for them to get out, face NHL shooters and let the chips fall," Dineen said. "The next couple of weeks will have a big impact to see who will start opening night for (the Pirates)." Portland will need at least one new goalie, perhaps two depending on when Giguere returns. At Tuesday's first practice, four goalies suited up. In addition to Hiller and Levasseur, there was NHL veteran Ilya Bryzgalov and Gerald Coleman, who started 11 games for the Pirates after a trade with Tampa Bay. "There probably would be the same number (of goalies) if (Giguere) was here, which means one of these goalies wouldn't be here," Dineen said. "These guys will get a good chance at training camp, more than anything else. They're going to get more practice during training camp." Levasseur, who spent a few days at the Ducks' camp last September before returning to junior hockey, and Hiller, who spent the last three seasons with Davos of the Swiss Elite League, appear ready. "There's a good opportunity to prove myself with the Giguere situation," Levasseur said. His brief stay last season helped Levasseur prepare. "It makes a big difference," he said. "I'm much more ready, more mature and more in shape. I came to this camp to stay longer than last year." At 25, Hiller seems to have the maturity to make the transition from a European elite league to professional hockey in North America. "For sure, I was watching for a new challenge," said Hiller, who speaks English, French and German. "I think here I have everything. A better game. Adapt to the game. Adapt to the rink." After playing on the Olympic-sized ice so prevalent in Europe, Hiller said it will take time to adjust to the smaller ice surfaces. "The circles are not in the same spots as I am used to," he said, "and the angles are just a little bit different." Staff Writer Paul Betit can be contacted at 725-8795 or at: pbetit@pressherald.com

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