James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
When the Carolina Hurricanes failed to make the playoffs for the fourth season in a row, Carolina general manager Jim Rutherford knew that they had work to do in the offseason. In the team’s end of season interview, Rutherford and Carolina head coach Kirk Muller discussed about what’s to come in the offseason and next season.
Rutherford made mention to adding multiple new defensemen in the offseason. Rutherford also added that he wants the Hurricanes to be a tough team to play against. It is likely veteran defenseman Joe Corvo will not return next season due to his age and style of play. Jamie McBain might also be up for negotiations as he hasn’t reached his expected potential.
Rutherford should look for one or two solid stay at home defensemen who can help cut down on the team’s mistakes in their own zone. I also think it would be smart to let Ryan Murphy start this year on the Hurricanes. He has massive potential, and he also has the ability to run a power play. The Canes need a good passer who can lead the breakout and that is Murphy’s specialty.
There have been a few interesting ideas proposed by the media. Could the team get a promising young defenseman by trading Jeff Skinner? This, however, would most likely be a mistake, as Skinner has the potential and skill to be a point per game player in the NHL. The Hurricanes also have two young defensemen with tremendous potential, with Justin Faulk and Murphy. The Hurricanes should keep their top six forwards the same and look to add depth players who can score and kill penalties. If the Canes manage to grab a few defensemen in the offseason and also some depth scorers, they may finally make the playoffs next year.
