Hurricane Season- Week One
After a split-squad scrimmage on Monday Captain Jordan Stall spoke to Carolina Hurricanes broadcaster Mike Maniscalco and in so many words explained that he believes the team has the right group of guys in the room this year but, “you’ve still got to bring it” on a nightly basis and he recognizes that it can be tough, especially in a year like this to flip the switch and jump right into things. Perhaps Dougie Hamilton overheard the conversation because in the waning minutes of the second period and in mid-season form Dougie took exception to a bad hit on his captain and responded, in force. Hamilton is far from a recognized enforcer on the team, this was only the third fight of his NHL career that made the decision to drop the gloves with Sam Gagner even that much more impactful. I was raised by a hockey coach who made sure we remained in our seats during fights, but that does not mean I will miss a message when it’s sent, Dougie’s ready.
One of the newest Hurricanes Jesper Fast brought mid-season energy to game one as well and introduced himself to Caniacs around the country by leading his team in hits, which is never a bad first impression. I’d argue Canes fans entered the young season wanting more out of Niederreiter and Dzingel than they’ve seen to date, both forwards found their way onto the score sheet and looked ready to give the fans exactly what they’re looking for. Two players who most certainly will need to “bring it” on a nightly basis from a points perspective, Aho and Teravainen, delivered with three combined assists including an impressive display of vision and strength by Aho on the Hurricanes first goal of the game. Mrazek did not have much to do in net, facing only fourteen shots, but he made the key saves when he had to and seemed, at least through three periods to play a poised game between the pipes. The Canes certainly have the skaters to get where they want to go this year, the goaltending may ultimately be the deciding factor and we will have to see if the Mrazek, Reimer combination is enough to compete with the top netminders around the league.
There are many other questions as a season like no other begins, hopefully, the Hurricanes can use the bubble playoffs of 2020 and the similarly short preparation period as a guide, but we know this time around they want a better end result. The captain said it can be difficult early on but I think his guys showed him and the rest of us, at least in game one that the Hurricanes are here, they are engaged and they are ready to chase another Cup.
