The expectation to start the season for the Hurricane’s defensive group was to have a strong top four with the acquisition of Brent Burns to pair with Jaccob Slavin. Brady Skjei and Brett Pesce make up the remaining top-four pairing.
The bottom defensive pairing has mixed and matched to start the season, with some viable options available.
Thus far, the constant starter has been Jalen Chatfield.
The right-handed defenseman played just 13 games for the Hurricanes last season but has improved his game. At 26 years of age, Chatfield does not shy away from physical play and has a sneaky shot.