2012-13 record: 19-25-4 (42 points)
Missed the playoffs
Captain: Eric Staal
The Carolina Hurricanes were supposed to be major contenders for a playoff spot last year after making moves for Jordan Staal and Alexander Semin last off-season. However, an injury to Cam Ward derailed those hopes mid-season, and the Hurricanes were drafting in the top 10 this past June once again. One could blame a less than sterling blue line that continues to be in the bottom third in goals given up. Not having a capable backup for Ward didn't do much to help matters, either, which was why the Hurricanes went out and picked up Anton Khudobin, who posted good numbers backing up Tuukka Rask in Boston last season. Their blue line is hoping for a career resurrection from Mike Komisarek and for Andrej Sekera to be an upgrade over both Joe Corvo and Jamie McBain. Offensively, the Hurricanes did alright, but it didn't carry over to their power play, which was ranked 27th. Either Joni Pitkanen or Justin Faulk needs to step up and be the power play quarterback. Eric Staal and Semin put up good numbers, but the offense will need a rebound from Jordan Staal, Jeff Skinner to be healthy, and for Jiri Tlusty to continue to build upon his career highs in points.
Prospects: The Hurricanes' developmental system hasn't turned out too much in the way of good prospects lately, and even with a few spots open, the only player that figures to get any true playing time would be Elias Lindholm. The Hurricanes hope for a result similar to the one with Skinner back in the 2010-11 season, with Lindholm making the smooth transition to the NHL directly from the draft. Beyond him, there's no sure fire bet for anyone else to make the team, but Ryan Murphy and Jeremy Welsh are expected to get looks at some point in the season.
Prediction: 7th in the Metropolitan Division
The Hurricanes would be ranked much higher, but Cam Ward's health has been a question in recent seasons, and the blue line is still the same mess it has been in recent years. A lot of things have to go right for the Hurricanes to make the playoffs, which may be too much to ask for this year.
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