Postmortem
What a mess. Was it the high of winning a Stanley Cup that took this team to such a disappointing season? Was there any way of salvaging that season that could have happened? Was there any way of sparing a Caniac nation spoiled by a winning season?
More from Cardiac Cane
- 2023 Southeast Rookie Showcase: Takeaways from the Canes’ Strong Showing in Florida
- Week Two Coverage Of College Hockey In NC
- Derek Stepan Ends His On Ice Career As A Hurricane
- The Southeast Rookie Showcase Will Be a Good Look at Carolina’s Future
- Noesen Ready To Provide Depth For Canes
While I wonder how many points they could have been eeked out with a healthy Cory Stillman, the 06-07 Carolina Hurricanes were let down most by their defense and goaltending. I won’t single either out since they are so closely intertwined, but shaving just 15 goals allowed off could have given the team a few more wins and a chance to defend their title in the ensuing Stanley Cup playoffs and perhaps rewrite history.
The team would have a long offseason to prepare for the 2007-08 campaign with the goal of returning to the playoffs. With their mix of veterans and young talent, there were pieces that gave fans hope. Would 06-07 prove to be an aberration or an omen of things to come?
Question For CC Readers: Do you think a healthy Stillman would have made enough of a difference for the Hurricanes? Did you have hope for a playoff return or did you see a team whose wheels were coming off?