Optimus Reim and King Petr
The Carolina Hurricanes netminding duo should be ready
As I wrote about prior, I believe that James Reimer is the Canes’ secret weapon in the playoffs. Reimer won four out of his last five starts before his injury against Toronto. In the games against the Anaheim Ducks and the New York Islanders, he came away with .946 and .963 save percentages respectively.
Petr Mrazek is no stranger to the playoffs and has an overall save percentage of .910. While he had his fair share of struggles during the regular season, Mrazek ended the season winning 4 of his last 5 starts. These quality wins were turning things around for the veteran goaltender, and with both netminders injury free the Canes will go into the postseason with an advantage.
While Anton Forsberg and Alex Nedeljkovic showed enormous potential while filling in for Reimer and Mrazek, nothing can take the place of a team’s chemistry with their veteran goalies. Save percentages aside, I believe the fans will be behind both goaltenders especially with their return from injury.
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I certainly don’t underestimate the New York Rangers. Mika Zibanejad is an absolute weapon, and they have nothing short of a goaltender roster that will create a challenge. However, I believe that the Canes are hungry and ready for the proper conclusion to a season that has been filled with highlight moments.
With the playoff format unlike anything that has ever been presented before, the Canes will need to take advantage of a decisive play in the round victory. With a sweep of the Rangers, the Canes will be one step closer to hoisting the Stanley Cup high in victory.
Question For CC Readers: Do you think that the Carolina Hurricanes have what it takes to finish off the Rangers?