The Carolina Hurricanes are one of the more successful regualr-season teams over the past several seasons. However, they only have one Stanley Cup win in 2006 to show for their efforts. With a big offseason, they look to change that and win the hardest trophy to win in sports. GM Eric Tulsky made this roster more dangerous by adding supreme talent in hopes of making a lengthy playoff run.
New additions to a strong core
New to the team for the upcoming season are forward Nikolaj Ehlers, defenseman K'Andre Miller, and goaltender Cayden Primeau. Ehlers gives the top six a significant boost in terms of offense and speed. He combines both scoring chances for himself and teammates and creates something out of nothing because he is dangerous without the puck. Last season with teh Winnipeg Jets he produced 24 goals and 39 assists for 63 points in 68 games. In the offseason, he was signed to a six-year deal worth $51 million.
Miller will make an impact on the defense regardless of whether he is on a regular shift or penalty kill. He is a difference maker as his defense is his calling card but he can supply offense now and then. He previously played with the New York Rangers but moved to Carolina for a better chance at winning a Stanley Cup. Last season for the Rangers he scored seven goals and 20 assists for 27 points in 74 games. Tulsky signed Miller to an 8-year deal worth $60 million in the offseason.
Goaltender Primeau was added for insurance between the pipes but can offer the odd start. Is he is not the backup in Carolina he could be used as a starter or backup with the Hurricanes American Hockey League affiliate, the Chicago Wolves. Still young and developing, he is due for a breakout season. Last season, Primeau went 2-3-1 with a 4.70 goals against average and a .836 save percentage with Montreal. He was acquired by Carolina in last June 2025 and was awarded a one-year deal worth $775,000 ahead of the new season. he may play a big role if Frederik Andersen or Pyotr Kochetkov falter.
This is a big season for Carolina. The past few seasons have ended with early exits in the playoffs and head coach Rod Brind'Amour's job in question. With the additions of Ehlers, MIller, and Primeau, Carolina makes themselves a contender again. Solid depth and a good duo between the pipes result in the Hurricanes making the Stanley Cup finals again.