Number 1 – Rod Brind’amour
Rod Brind’amour is the best Carolina Hurricane ever. What he did for this team and this community in his time with the team is unbelievable. Hockey wasn’t popular before he and Ron Francis came in. Rod Brind’amour not only put up good stats, he also provided the best leadership that the Carolina Hurricanes have ever experienced.
On February 18th, 2011, The Carolina Hurricanes played the Philadelphia Flyers. This was Rod Brind’amour night at the RBC Center. The ceremony lasted over 35 minutes. The ceremony brought fans to their feet for the entire duration of the ceremony. The Hurricanes won the game 3-2. This was one of the most emotional game in Carolina Hurricanes history. It was fitting that the game winning goal was scored by former team mate Chad LaRose. There was also a standing ovation midway through the game that lasted nearly 15 minutes.
The most recognized image in Carolina Hurricanes history is Rod Brind’amour lifting the Stanley Cup. He stomped on the ground while he kissed it for the first time. The pure emotion from Rod Brind’amour and the Carolina Hurricanes was amazing.
If you look up in the PNC Arena, you will see the number 17, along with number 10 and 2. These numbers will never been worn again on a Carolina Hurricanes uniform.
Regular Season Stats With The Carolina Hurricanes
Games – 694
Goals – 174
Assists – 299
Points – 473
Brind’amour’s point total wasn’t on the level of Ron Francis, but they were still very good. The Rod Brind’amour impact on this team was beyond the points. He is the best leader in franchise history. /he led by example and by words on and off the ice.
Playoff Stats With The Carolina Hurricanes
Games – 72
Goals – 18
Assists – 20
Points – 38
Rod Brind’amour may be the most clutch player to ever wear a Hurricanes uniform. He played his best when it counted. He also has made the biggest impact on this area. Without Rod Brind’amour, hockey would not be the same in North Carolina. His leadership, level of play, and the example that he sets for his team mates and the community makes him the best Hurricane of all time.