CAROLINA FRANCHISE STARTING OFF WELL
Carolina
With just under 20 games played, the Carolina Hurricanes take the time to reflect on the season that has been already.
With 28 points, the Hurricanes are currently number 1 overall in the league and are currently riding an undefeated streak of 10 games. For the team itself, this has sparked a promising look at a team that many expected to be fighting for a playoff spot.
"I won't lie to anyone and say I figured we'd be the top dog in the league," said head coach Joel Quenneville. "This team was built to be competitive and play other squads with a bit of fire and intensity, but to think we'd be where we are would have been a bit on the insane side. Hard work and determination though, it can make a success out of anyone."
Cory Stillman, Alexei Kovalev and Jeff Friesen all are averaging a point a game while goaltender Jose Theodore has been rock solid, was the first goalie to hit 10 wins and is currently the favourite in the Norris voting for Goaltender of the year.
"We have a lot of balance to be proud of," said the coach. "These guys have done what they had to do."
Aside from the pro, however, the young junior Hurricanes have also been on a bit of a tear as of late. Sitting now third in the conference and a mere 2 points back of top spot, with a game in hand, the Canes look to also rise to the top. Led by newcomer Junior Lessard, the offensive powered Canes are tops in the goals per game category and lead the league with the deadliest power play out there.
"There were huge expectations on this team," said head coach Craig Hartsburg. "We felt the pressure early and I think a lot of guys took our situation as we were going to walk through and win it all. It took about 5 games to realize this league can beat you many different ways and I think we are focused now."
Although the season is early, the Canes in general have a lot to be happy about these days. With their squads doing so well in both leagues, 6 first round draft picks stocked for this upcoming season and a huge youth movement seemingly on the way, the Canes look forward to the future.
With just under 20 games played, the Carolina Hurricanes take the time to reflect on the season that has been already.
With 28 points, the Hurricanes are currently number 1 overall in the league and are currently riding an undefeated streak of 10 games. For the team itself, this has sparked a promising look at a team that many expected to be fighting for a playoff spot.
"I won't lie to anyone and say I figured we'd be the top dog in the league," said head coach Joel Quenneville. "This team was built to be competitive and play other squads with a bit of fire and intensity, but to think we'd be where we are would have been a bit on the insane side. Hard work and determination though, it can make a success out of anyone."
Cory Stillman, Alexei Kovalev and Jeff Friesen all are averaging a point a game while goaltender Jose Theodore has been rock solid, was the first goalie to hit 10 wins and is currently the favourite in the Norris voting for Goaltender of the year.
"We have a lot of balance to be proud of," said the coach. "These guys have done what they had to do."
Aside from the pro, however, the young junior Hurricanes have also been on a bit of a tear as of late. Sitting now third in the conference and a mere 2 points back of top spot, with a game in hand, the Canes look to also rise to the top. Led by newcomer Junior Lessard, the offensive powered Canes are tops in the goals per game category and lead the league with the deadliest power play out there.
"There were huge expectations on this team," said head coach Craig Hartsburg. "We felt the pressure early and I think a lot of guys took our situation as we were going to walk through and win it all. It took about 5 games to realize this league can beat you many different ways and I think we are focused now."
Although the season is early, the Canes in general have a lot to be happy about these days. With their squads doing so well in both leagues, 6 first round draft picks stocked for this upcoming season and a huge youth movement seemingly on the way, the Canes look forward to the future.
posted by Lohaus at 11:48 AM
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