After a 1-2 struggle that saw more bad than good last week even in the lone win, the Hurricanes are off to a much better start this week. With solid wins in tough road match ups against the Red Wings and Islanders, the Canes are a perfect 4 for 4 earning points this week. In addition, the 2 wins close out a successful 7-game road trip at 4-3.
But the key is to extend the success to make up for the 0-3 start. Right now, the Canes are 4-6 with 2 home games (Friday vs. Avalanche and Sunday vs. Lightning) before a 4-day lay off to catch their breath. The return from the long trip, a back-to-back 2nd half tonight and a a 4th game in 6 days on Sunday are challenging, but it is important not to take the foot off the pedal and give up all that has been earned this week.
Friday night vs. Colorado
Friday should feature a return of Cam Ward to net. He has been very good of late and probably needs to be a key ingredient in a win tonight. Both teams played last night, so it should be even though possibly sluggish tonight. Ward shut out Colorado in a 1-0 overtime win just last week, so hopefully he is in the Avs' heads. Past Ward, I think this game sets up well for whichever team's best players can find the higher gear after playing last night. Jordan Staal is coming off his best game this season, and Eric Staal, who played on his line at the end, also played a power forward game. Those are the 2 best options from the 'building on momentum category. The list of players in the 'due to surge' category is big with Jeff Skinner, Elias Lindholm, Kris Versteeg and others looking to get on track.
Sunday vs. Tampa Bay
A win Friday would put the Canes within a Sunday win of clawing back to break even at 6-6. That would obviously be a good thing, but the biggest thing is just not to take a step backward right now. The game Sunday is the Canes 4th in 6 days including travel days and a back-to-back in the middle. Just like Friday, this game will fall into the 'find a way' category.
The Canes have been pretty sound defensively in recent games. That fits well with trying to slow the Lightning, but broader scoring depth and some semblance of help from the power play would also be welcome to try to match the Lightning's fire power.
A couple players to keep an eye on:
--Ryan Murphy. Sometimes when the skating is sluggish, there is more open ice for the few players who are going. If Ryan Murphy still has his legs, he fits the bill. Could he go on a point-producing burst.
--Jordan Staal. After finally getting on the score sheet in game #10, could he now be ready to surge?
--Cam Ward. He stole a win last week in Colorado. If the Canes struggle physically, can he hold the fort to give the team a chance and maybe steal more points?
--Brett Pesce. The 20-year old makes his home debut on Friday. Good for him! Get a ticket and see another young blue-liner who could be part of the defense for years to come in his first game in Raleigh.
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