Carolina Hurricanes forward Teuvo Teravainen has been steadily improving this season and is finally coming into his own in Carolina.
This year has been a weird one for Teuvo Teravainen. First it was getting surprisingly traded to the Carolina Hurricanes. Then it was a less than stellar performance at the World Cup of Hockey, followed up by an up and down season with his new team. That all seems to changing however.
Since the trade deadline, Teravainen has stepped into a larger role for the Carolina Hurricanes. The Finn has responded well. Unlike anytime before during the season, Teravainen is playing with more intensity and precision. If you want some proof, just check out his saucer pass from last week against Florida.
Hard times have fallen on Canes. Inconsistent offensive performances, injuries, and trades are leaving holes in the team. Teravainen has been able to rise to the occasion. When Jeff Skinner was absent for the Florida road trip, Teuvo Teravainen was Carolina’s most imposing offensive weapon, essentially replacing Skinner for a few games.
In the home and home series with Arizona, Teravainen continued to play with the same intensity. More so than at any other point this year, he has displayed a willingness to crash the net and post up to screen the goalie. He was rewarded with a deflection goal on Sunday against the Coyotes.
For Canes fans, it is fantastic to finally see a more consistent image of what Teravainen can be for Carolina. He has the potential to be one of the Carolina Hurricanes’ most productive forwards. Before this stretch, that image was blurry then clear then blurry again. Everyone knew the guy has serious skills, but it never materialized for an extended period of time. It has now and Teuvo has started to find his groove.
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Because Teravainen has been so up and down this year, it is easy to overlook his production too. He is still the Canes 5th leading scorer and 2nd best power play weapon by points recorded. Even better, there is a pretty good chance he sets career highs in goals and assists.
Going into the last month of the season, Teravainen has the opportunity to really impress his coaches, Canes fans, and the Hurricanes front office. His entry level contract expires after this season and he will be looking for a pay raise this summer. Carolina will surely oblige, but the number is still up in the air. It’s up to Teravainen to show what he is worth.
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Until then, Teuvo Teravainen will hopefully continue to work and prove himself. As the season winds down, expect the Finn to push for his place as one of the Carolina Hurricanes best offensive players.