Remembering The Biggest Trade Deadlines in Hurricanes History: The Dark Days Begin
After two long postseason runs in 2006 and 2009, the organization underwent a period of unprecedented mediocrity that spanned nearly a decade.
By Ben Huffman
When the Carolina Hurricanes lost in the Eastern Conference Finals in 2009, no one could've expected it would be the last taste of postseason hockey we'd experience for a long time. This signaled a significant shift in their dealings at the trade deadline. The shoe was on the other foot as the Canes supplied other contenders with players who could help boost their chances.
The next two parts of this series will focus on what has commonly become known as the "Dark Days" of the team's history. The plan is to split it by first tackling 2010 through 2014. During these days, we'll see a lockout-shortened season and a conference realignment. What we won't see is a lot of moments when the organization was pushing for the playoffs.