*Regular Season Finish: 6th in Eastern Conference’*Postseason Finish: Eliminated in Eastern Conference Finals’
Carolina shocked many in the hockey world when they upset both the New Jersey Devils and the top-seeded Bruins before falling to the Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2009 postseason. Perhaps it should not have come as such a shock, considering that the Hurricanes present one of the more well-rounded teams in the Eastern Conference, led by Eric Staal and Rod Brind’Amour. Coupled with the fact that Cam Ward turns into a brick wall during the playoffs, and Carolina is one of the teams that no one else should want to come up against in the postseason.
This offseason, the Hurricanes were relatively quiet, making no real moves of note. They re-signed wingers Erik Cole and Jussi Jokinen, as well as the gritty Tuomo Ruutu. New to the ‘Canes offense in 2009-10 will be center Tom Kostopolos, who has spent the last two seasons in Montreal. Kostopoulos is a productive 3rd line center, known for his excellent work ethic and strong sense of determination. He should be an excellent fit in the Carolina locker room.
Carolina certainly didn’t make any changes in net, as Cam Ward should have that position locked down for years to come, and there have not been any significant moves made on the blueline, although there are reports that Anton Babchuk will not be re-signed. Basically, the Carolina team that hustled its way to the Eastern Conference Championship will be back and ready for more next season. Any time a team works as hard as the Hurricanes do, they’re difficult to count out.