#7: Carolina Hurricanes
Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
The Hurricanes might not look it, but they could have some nice trios out there this season in overtime. They don’t quite have the skilled forwards of the other teams in the Metropolitan Division, but if their best guys can stay healthy, they could have success in overtime this season.
CONSERVATIVE LINEUP
If the Staals are healthy, they could form a dynamic duo. Throw 2014 NHL All-Star Faulk into the equation and that could be a nice trio. Skinner has been haunted by injuries and inconsistency as of late, but when he’s on his game, there aren’t too many guys better than him. Lindholm quietly had a really nice season for the Canes last season. I’m a fan of Wisniewski. Two very solid trios here.
ALL-IN LINEUP
- E. Staal – J. Staal – Skinner
- Victor Rask – Lindholm – Nathan Gerbe
Once again, health is a huge concern, but that first trio is really good if they’re all healthy. The second line could be a lot of fun. Gerbe could certainly be a force with more space to work with.
OVERALL OUTLOOK
The Hurricanes will be better than people think during three on three overtime this year. It’s a testament to how good the rest of the division is that they are second to last.
Next: #6: Flyers