Round Two Preview: Forwards
By Erik Fowlie
Hurricanes
For the ‘Canes, we see a more balanced scoring approach. Overall, they have more 40-point players than the Rangers (8-6) and more double-digit goal-scorers in the regular season (13-9). Leading the way offensively for the Hurricanes is star center Sebastian Aho. Aho produced the best offensive season of his career with 36 goals, 53 assists, and 89 points (Something to note, Panarin scored far more goals, but he also took nearly 100 more shots than Aho during the regular season). Compared to the Rangers, the ‘Canes top 6 scoring leaders account for 47% of their offensive output. Also offensively, the Hurricanes had a breakout season from young forward Seth Jarvis. Combining his hardworking play with his natural skill, Jarvis produced his first-ever 30-goal season and was the best offensive player for the Hurricanes against the Islanders in round one. The Hurricanes’ offensive style is aggressive and relentless. The ‘Canes players play with high speed and skill, creating shot opportunities and scoring chances throughout each game.
Key Hurricanes Forwards:
6. Sebastian Aho
Best offensive player. Able to drive the play, score goals, and find open teammates.
7. Andrei Svechnikov
Lethal shot and a great skater. Not afraid to throw the body around. Almost a point per game this season after returning from his ACL injury
8. Martin Necas
The most skilled Hurricanes player according to Seth Jarvis in his recent Spittin’ Chiclets interview. Creative player and one of the fastest skaters in the world.
9. Seth Jarvis
Incredible breakout year for the young forward. He plays hard and has a style that is suited for the playoffs.
10. Jake Guentzel
Trade deadline pickup fit in immediately with his new team. Has great chemistry with Aho and has been over a point per game since arriving in Raleigh
11. Teuvo Teravainen
Creative offensive player with a lethal shot. Sometimes passes the puck when he should shoot.
12. Evgeny Kuznetsov
Elite level playmaker. Proven playoff performer but is not the most hard-working player in the defensive zone