Last year’s surge to the Eastern Conference finals has lifted expectations in Carolina. To match these lofty goals, the Canes will need key players to improve on last year’s production to offset the losses of players like Justin Williams, Micheal Ferland, Curtis McElhinney, Calvin de Haan and Greg McKegg.
Here’s a look at four players who will need to post better numbers this season if the Carolina Hurricanes are to return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Svechnikov should shine with more time
Last year’s rookie sensation posted 20 goals and 17 assists. The No. 2 overall pick in 2018 proved he could handle the physicality of the NHL, logging close to 15 minutes of ice time in the regular season while playing all 82 games.