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The reason for Phil Di Giuseppe's leave of absence finally revealed

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Felip Gosselin
May 16, 2024 (8:39 PM)

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Photo credit: TSN

In the midst of the Stanley Cup Playoffs' second round, the Canucks' forward Phil Di Giuseppe was forced to return to Vancouver during the team's trip to Edmonton.

Di Giuseppe retreated to Vancouver for a 'family matter' after the team had granted him a leave of absence. During game five's pre-game interview, the reason for his absence was finally revealed. As it turns out, the 30-year-old and his wife welcomed a child into their life and Di Giuseppe returned home to assist his wife during these moments:

Phil Di Giuseppe returns to VAN lineup w focus+motivation. He and his wife, Maggie, welcomed a son, Sam, to their family on Sunday.

"It was a tough pregnancy. Our little kid's a warrior and I can't be more proud of him and her. Both are healthy. They're coming home today."

Di Giuseppe appears to be energized by his new dad role, forward has been a force during game 5 and his hard work was eventually rewarded with the Canucks' second goal!

Congratulations to the new parents!