For the first time in 20 years, the Carolina Hurricanes will be beginning a season as the reigning defending Stanley Cup Champions Their path to defending that championship began today with training camp.
Not many teams have the luxury of returning most of their players from a championship run. The Canes announced this week that Captain Jordan Staal has signed a one-year extension. This season was originally the final year of his contract, but now the extension solidifies another piece beyond this season.
Other WRAL Top Stories
"The best part is I get two more two more chances at doing what we did last year, and two more great years of being able to run with with these guys," Staal said.
Staal's line mate Seth Jarvis had off-season shoulder surgery, so he begins training camp in the yellow non-contact jersey. Jarvis is slated to be out three to six months, but is expected to play this year. He says he won't rush the process.
"It's just making sure I'm not letting these guys down," Jarvis said. "I don't want to do anything stupid and prolong my my way back. So it's just keeping these guys in mind. I know as bad as I want to be out there, I'm hoping they want me back."
The only pieces missing from last season is Frederik Andersen and Alexander Nikishin. Nikishin has been the subject of trade rumors this off-season. His contract with the Canes has lapsed, but they own his rights. However, until his situation is situated, his place on the team is up for grabs among some of the Hurricanes' young prospects.
"I mean, I would say I don't know if it's more competition, but there's more maybe opportunity than we would have probably planned for," said head coach Rod Brind'Amour. "So that that could go to one of the younger guys. We'll see."
Training Camp continues for the next week and a half, and the Canes will begin their season on September 29th at Lenovo Center in Raleigh.