Special Team Success
Nov 18, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Carolina Hurricanes defenseman John-Michael Liles (26) and center Victor Rask (49) celebrate Rasks power play goal against Dallas Stars goalie Kari Lehtonen (not pictured) during the second period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
The special teams work from the Carolina Hurricanes through the months of October and November has been one of the team’s strongest areas.
The power play ranks in the top-10 in the NHL at an even 20%. The penalty kill is also in the top-half of the league at 81.7%, which ranks 15th in the league.
The Hurricanes power play has not been ran by their top-end players like Eric Staal, Alexander Semin, or Jiri Tlusty. It has been ran by Riley Nash, Nathan Gerbe, Elias Lindholm, Victor Rask, John-Michael Liles, and Justin Faulk.
There is an obvious difference in play between units 1 and 2 on the man advantage. When the unit centered by Riley Nash steps onto the ice, the puck seems to move much better, which leads to open shots and goals.
Right now, that unit seems to have the perfect personnel on it. For whatever reason, everyone is gelling very well together, and it shows no sign of slowing down.
The penalty kill has been good, despite the loss of Jordan Staal. Jay McClement, Patrick Dwyer, and Riley Nash have been key forwards on the kill, with Justin Faulk, Andrej Sekera, and Ron Hainsey being key defenders.
Through all the wins and losses this year in Carolina, the special teams has been one bright spot throughout.