Carolina Hurricanes 2010-2011 NHL Preview:
After the Carolina Hurricanes got off to a terrible start last season, they managed to rebound with a respectable second half. However, they still missed the playoffs and will be looking to improve on a year that saw them finish 11th in the Eastern Conference.
The offense will be centered around Eric Staal, who managed 70 points on 29 goals and 41 assists last year to lead the team. Staal has great potential, but the Hurricanes will be hard pressed to find someone to surround him with. The performance of Jussi Jokinen will be vital, as he will be expected to be productive once again after scoring 30 goals last season.
Carolina is also lucky enough to have one of the best goalies in the game in Cam Ward. While Ward is a solid option between the pipes, the defense surrounding him is rather porous. If the defense can protect Ward from constant bombardment, there is hope that the Hurricanes will be able to breakthrough and make the playoffs, but the chances are slim and they may be sitting at home come April.
Carolina Hurricanes 2009-2010 NHL Preview:
The Carolina Hurricanes are a dangerous hockey team for opponents in the 2009-2010 season. Carolina had a great playoff run last year, until they ran into a buzz saw by the name of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Some experts have downgraded projections for the Hurricanes this year, but captain Rod Brind'Amour should have his squad ready to play. Expect the unexpected from Carolina this year, but don't count them out from making some noise in the 2010 NHL playoffs.