NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Dwight Helminen, C (Signed as a free agent, previously playing in Europe)
Josef Melichar, D (Signed as a free agent, previously playing in Europe)
Joni Pitkanen, D (Trade with the Edmonton Oilers)
NOTABLE LOSSES
Erik Cole, LW (Traded to the Edmonton Oilers)
John Grahame, G (Signed with Avangard Omsk of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Jeff Hamilton, C (Buyout, signed with the Chicago Wolves of the AHL)
Bret Hedican, D (Unsigned Free Agent)
Darcy Hordichuk (Acquired his rights in a trade with the Nashville Predators, later signed as a free agent with the Vancouver Canucks)
Trevor Letowski, LW (Signed with Barys Astana of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Glen Wesley, D (Retired)
2007-08 Season Finish: 2nd Southeast Division, 9th Eastern Conference, 92 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs
2008-09 Prediction: 2nd Southeast Division, 7th Eastern Conference
The Carolina Hurricanes narrowly made the playoffs last season, being eliminated from playoff contention in the final days of the regular season. This season, the Hurricanes will look to make it back to the post-season with an offense that could see some younger players entering the fold. Prospects Brandon Sutter and Drayson Bowman will look to earn a roster spot on the team during training camp with their highly-touted offensive skills, but would likely be delegated to the 4th line as the Hurricanes have a lot of veteran depth up front. While Erik Cole's offense will be missed, the Hurricanes have quality scorers in Eric Staal, Justin Williams, and Ray Whitney, while Rod Brind'Amour compliments them with his excellent two-way play and passing ability. Sergei Samsonov, whose offensive production has been in decline the last few seasons, will look to improve himself with Carolina's top scorers, and if he does, would be a great fit to the team's offense. Patrick Eaves will likely be one of the Hurricanes' top six forwards with his fine offensive play. Tuomo Ruutu, Matt Cullen, and Scott Walker all bring plenty of offensive talent and toughness to Carolina's checking line. It's likely Chad LaRose and Ryan Bayda will play on the Hurricanes' 4th line, but could face competition from Wade Brookbank, Joe Jensen, and Brandon Nolan at training camp. While the Hurricanes have plenty of veteran depth on their offense, they could likely improve their offense by adding a top-six forward capable of putting up consistent numbers. If Samsonov and Eaves fail to produce good offensive numbers, the Hurricanes should consider making a trade for a top-six forward.
The Hurricanes saw the departure of two long-time defensemen this summer in Glen Wesley and Bret Hedican, who retired and left via free agency, respectively. Carolina immediately replaced the two players by trading for Joni Pitkanen and signing Josef Melichar. Pitkanen provides the Hurricanes' defense with offensive skill, something the team lacked on defense last season. Joe Corvo also brings the team plenty of offense to their defense, and actually improved his play last season after being traded to the Hurricanes from the Ottawa Senators. Frantisek Kaberle brings a lot of defensive depth and veteran experience to the team's blueline, while Tim Gleason and Niclas Wallin bring physical play and grittiness to Carolina's defense. Anton Babchuk, who spent last season in Russia, will likely compete with Dennis Seidenberg, Tim Conboy, and Josef Melichar for the final spots on the Hurricanes' defense. Prospects Casey Borer and Noah Babin will look to make the team at training camp as well.
Cam Ward returns as the Hurricanes starting goaltender and will likely improve his play again his season. Showing lots of promise after winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP in 2006, Ward will only get better with each season he plays, and will likely be the Hurricanes' starter for years to come. Michael Leighton will be the backup to Ward this season, and will likely see little playing time, as Ward will probably play most of the games. If Ward were to struggle or suffer a lengthy injury this season, the Hurricanes would likely have to trade for an experienced goalie, as Leighton hasn't put up consistent enough numbers over the past few seasons to be relied upon as the starter.
STRENGTHS
- Lots of offensive depth on both offense and defense.
- Plenty of young offensive prospects ensure the Hurricanes' offense will remain competitive in the future.
WEAKNESSES
- Could use a consistent, top-six forward.
- Not a lot of highly touted defensive prospects.
- Could use a more experienced backup goaltender.
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