Ben Shelley: Hurricanes could have an abundance of depth on defense for playoffs

I actually voted for Vatanen (well, Someone Else). I’m wondering if expecting a guy who has had almost no chance to learn the system and gel with teammates to do so in a playoff atmosphere is really the best move. Sit him for the first game or two and bring him in if one of the other d-men are struggling.

I actually voted for Vatanen (well, Someone Else). I’m wondering if expecting a guy who has had almost no chance to learn the system and gel with teammates to do so in a playoff atmosphere is really the best move. Sit him for the first game or two and bring him in if one of the other d-men are struggling.
- Quetzalcoatl

Thanks for reading!

That's a very solid point. I'd go the other way and say I'd prefer to see Vatanen started then if it becomes clear he hasn't learned the system well enough then he could be swapped out. But I'd at least give him a chance based on how capable of a player he's been in ANA/NJD.

If all are ready and available, wouldn't there be a cap issue? Or will the cap be relaxed in the play-offs?

If all are ready and available, wouldn't there be a cap issue? Or will the cap be relaxed in the play-offs?
- HenryHockey

They would have been over but my understanding is that the cap won't be applied for the playoffs and teams will be allowed to activate players from LTIR, even if it means going over the cap.

Thanks for reading!

Fleury, Gardiner and TVR are all better than Edmundson

Thanks for answering my question