2028-29- Sami Kapanen
Before Jussi Jokinen, Joni Pitkanen, Teuvo Teravainen, Sebastian Aho, and Seth Jarvis started lighting the lamp for the Hurricanes, Sami Kapanen was the original Finn. Relocating with the team from Hartford, Kapanen was the only Finnish player on the team each season he played for Carolina. Kapanen, known for his speed, was a consistent threat for the team, taking part in the first three playoff runs the Hurricanes embarked on.
Numbers-wise, Kapanen is comparable to Justin Williams. He finished his time in Raleigh with one fewer goal (127) and assist (187) than the Hurricanes Hall of Famer in seven fewer games (440) across six seasons. Kapanen was a two-time All-Star, winning the Fastest Skater competition during each appearance. There have been many incredible Europeans to wear the Canes' crest. Honoring one of the originals would be an excellent tribute.