Mon. Sep 15th, 2025

Carolina Hurricanes Preview: Can the Canes Finally Clear the Playoff Hurdle?

By Rory Boylen

The Carolina Hurricanes are undeniably a skilled and formidable hockey team. They`ve consistently reached the playoffs for seven consecutive years, advanced past the first round each time, and made three Eastern Conference Finals appearances since 2019, while also securing a top-two division finish for five seasons straight.

Despite their consistent performance, the Hurricanes have yet to overcome a significant obstacle. Whether due to inconsistent goaltending, insufficient offense, or a lack of physical toughness, they haven`t been able to achieve ultimate playoff success. In their three Conference Finals outings, they`ve managed just one victory in total, and their elimination series have generally concluded quickly.

Could this season mark a turning point? The Hurricanes secured one of the most prominent unrestricted free agents available. They`ve revamped their defensive corps, notably acquiring K`Andre Miller from the Rangers and signing him to a long-term extension. The team boasts impressive roster depth, and head coach Rod Brind`Amour has a proven record of regular-season success.

Sam Cosentino discusses Nikolaj Ehlers` integration into Rod Brind`Amour`s system and how his speed will benefit the Carolina Hurricanes on the FAN Hockey Show.

Despite these strengths, Hurricanes fans are still yearning for more. This team, a genuine Stanley Cup contender, is still striving to take those crucial final steps to championship glory.

This preview focuses on the “Storm Surge” Carolina Hurricanes.

Key Newcomer to Watch: Nikolaj Ehlers

High-impact, top-line free agents were scarce, but Carolina successfully acquired one of the best in Nikolaj Ehlers. Despite playing ten seasons with the Jets, the Danish forward never consistently received top-tier minutes. Yet, he`s coming off one of his most productive offensive seasons, tallying 24 goals and 63 points in 69 games last year. Remarkably, Ehlers ranked eighth in average even-strength ice time among Winnipeg forwards, but he was second only to Kyle Connor in goals and points per 60 minutes of 5-on-5 play.

Now, with an $8.5 million salary making him the Hurricanes` second-highest-paid player, Ehlers is poised for increased responsibility and could start the season on the top line. This season will reveal how he performs with an elevated role and elite linemates.

Nikolaj Ehlers expresses his enthusiasm for a new challenge with the Hurricanes, explaining his decision to sign with the team in free agency, his belief that his skills align well with the team, and his excitement for this new chapter in his career.

By Gareth Tenby

Gareth Tenby is a dedicated combat sports journalist based in Bristol, England. With over 15 years of experience covering everything from local boxing matches to international MMA tournaments, Gareth has established himself as a respected voice in martial arts reporting.

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