We are rapidly approaching Thanksgiving here in the United States and the hockey world has a rare non-holiday day off across the board. The rest of the league and the Carolina Hurricanes pick up the scheduled tomorrow evening. The Hurricanes will host the Edmonton Oilers.
Keeping in the theme of the week and the holiday spirit, let’s focus on the things to be thankful for in Caniac nation.
What player or players are you most thankful for this season?
I will start the conversation with my player that I am most thankful for on the Canes. This is a player that I notice every game. As a fan, I have always cared most about the effort given on the ice and the type of person off.
Jordan Martinook is one of those “glue” guys that keeps the boys together through good times and bad. He plays hard every night and does not take a shift off. Having faced failure, Martinook takes every chance he gets very personally and knows the importance hockey has on the community.
The 31 year-old forward does everything he is asked to do and with a smile. Being able to contribute in many situations for the Canes is what makes Martinook invaluable. The statistics do not come flashy but the former Arizona Coyotes winger has a great shot and proved it with 13 goals last season.
This season, the 10-year veteran has just 4 assists but has played strong defensively, having a plus 4 rating.
All hockey aside, Martinook has been a influential person in the Raleigh community since becoming a part of the team in 2018. Being a husband and father of two children, the Manitoba native knows the important things in life.
Whether it be hosting community events, contributing to charity or helping hype up the NC State football fans, Martinook is all about make everyone feel welcome and included.
As we prepare our turkey dinners for later this week, try and focus on the things to be thankful for with your family and friends.
Happy Thanksgiving!