Game Changers, #6
The Long Game
by Rachel Reid
Contents
Chapter Thirty-Seven
Overview
Amid fallout from Game 7 accusations, Ilya and Shane consider their futures and receive unexpected support from Scott, who invites them into a new players’ coalition against toxic hockey culture. After Ottawa’s elimination, Ilya confronts persistent depression and discusses treatment, while Shane affirms their engagement and steadfast commitment.
Summary
Ilya and Shane grapple with media speculation that Shane intentionally let Ilya score in Game 7. On the phone, Ilya urges Shane to consider free agency options, even Ottawa, while Shane worries about cap space and his value. They arrange for Shane and his parents to attend Ottawa’s home games.
Between Games 3 and 4 in Ottawa, Scott Hunter unexpectedly visits Ilya’s house and offers support after their outing, implicitly rejecting the idea that Shane threw the game. Scott pitches a cross-hockey players’ coalition to confront toxic culture, and both Ilya and Shane commit to join. They banter about wedding timing, tentatively landing on July, and Ilya and Scott agree to be friends after the series.
New York eliminates Ottawa 4–1. On the flight home, Ilya spirals despite recent life changes and admits lingering exhaustion and emptiness. Troy checks in, shares plans to settle near Ottawa with Harris, and offers friendship and dog playdates, briefly lifting Ilya’s mood.
Back home late at night, Shane comforts a sobbing Ilya. In bed, Ilya discloses recurring depression and potential suicidal ideation, plans to consult the team doctor about medication, and asks Shane not to blame himself. Shane pledges unwavering support, reiterates his long-term commitment, and helps Ilya settle to sleep.
Who Appears
- Ilya RozanovOttawa captain; rebuffs accusations, joins Scott’s coalition, suffers depressive spiral after elimination, plans to seek medication, reaffirms engagement.
- Shane HollanderReels from media claims, considers free agency and Ottawa, joins coalition, comforts Ilya, commits to marriage and long-term support.
- Scott HunterRival captain who visits, offers support, rejects throw-game narrative, recruits them to a cross-hockey anti-toxicity coalition.
- Troy BarrettChecks in on Ilya post-elimination, shares plans to live near Ottawa with Harris, offers friendship and support.
- AnyaIlya’s dog; greets him on return home, a comforting presence amid his emotional crash.