In the world of hockey, team success is the ultimate goal, and the Carolina Hurricanes are a prime example of that ethos. Under the guidance of Rod Brind'Amour, the Hurricanes are on track for their eighth consecutive postseason appearance, setting a new franchise record. This squad is poised to reach the 100-point mark once again, a testament to their consistency and strength.
While they're slightly behind the record-setting pace of the 2021-22 team, which saw Frederik Andersen's stellar start lead to a 54-20-8 record, this year's Hurricanes are still in the hunt. That season's 54 wins and 116 points remain the franchise's benchmarks, surpassing even the legendary 2005-06 team. However, Andersen's injury that year was a hurdle they couldn't overcome in the playoffs.
This season, the Canes are chasing those records with determination. After their latest victory, they stand at 37 wins and 80 points, maintaining a .690 points percentage.
This puts them on course for a 113-point finish, just shy of the 2021-22 pace. Back then, the team was 41-12-5 after 58 games, closing the season with a 13-8-3 run.
The path to matching those records is challenging, with 24 games left, including 13 against playoff-bound teams. The Hurricanes face formidable opponents like the Pittsburgh Penguins and have only four games against teams below .500, all in the Western Conference. Fortunately, they've already navigated many of the West's toughest matchups.
The schedule isn't doing them any favors, either. March kicks off with a four-game road trip to the Northwest and Alberta, followed by another stretch with five of six games on the road. They wrap up the season with their final four games away from home, including some challenging arenas.
Securing 17 wins in their remaining 24 games is a tall order, but this team has shown they have the grit to achieve it. Realistically, finishing in the mid-100s in points seems more attainable, likely securing the top spot in their division. With Tampa Bay playing strong, clinching the #1 seed in the East might be tougher, but a solid finish heading into the playoffs is what truly matters.
As the Hurricanes push forward, their focus remains on teamwork and finishing strong, setting the stage for a promising postseason run.