Raleigh fans have been waiting for the Carolina Hurricanes to bring home a Stanley Cup for nearly two decades.
With the playoffs starting, the Canes have one of their best chances yet to bring the cup home. This is all thanks to a decent ending to the regular season (second in the Metropolitan Division) and a massive trade.
On March 7, less than five hours before the NHL trade deadline, the Canes sent Mikko Rantanen to the Dallas Stars for forward Logan Stankoven.
Many Canes fans were shocked, since Rantanen had reluctantly arrived in Raleigh only two months after the blockbuster trade shipped Martin Necas to the Colorado Avalanche.
The first trade did not live up to its expectations due to underperformance from Rantanen and his statement that he did not plan on re-signing with the Canes next season. But the second one would prove to be much more beneficial.
In the past ten games with the Canes Stankoven has collected five points, including two huge goals in the Canes’ opening playoff win on April 20. In comparison, in just 13 games with the Canes Rantanen collected six points and scored only two goals.
In hindsight, this second trade shows incredible potential, which is vital for the playoffs. With the Canes playing the New Jersey Devils once again, many Canes fans see this first round matchup as a blessing. Recently the Devils have lost numerous important players to injury leaving them with a different type of team.
However, it is worth noting that it has been three months since these two teams have faced off. Since then, both teams have changed due to trades and injuries.
The Canes and Devils finished second and third in the Metropolitan Division. During their four regular season games both teams won two.
Statistically, both teams have their strengths (offensive production and power plays) and their weaknesses (goaltending and offensive production). Additionally, the Canes have worked their way up into a decent playoff spot throughout the whole season whereas the Devils have been a playoff contending team the entire season.
Despite Carolina jumping to an early 2-0 lead, this first round matchup will be competitive and entertaining. If the newly acquired players keep playing well and the Canes can win on the road, they could possibly reach the Stanley Cup Finals.
