The Canes opened the season with speed, layers, and a surprising dose of finish, and the timing couldn’t be better with a daunting West Coast swing underway. Erin, Katie & I unpack why the defense already looks different: K’Andre Miller’s glide and reach changing the rush math, Sean Walker fitting cleanly with multiple partners, and Shane Gostisbehere thriving on his off side next to Alex Nikishin. That pairing’s calm exits and complementary offense are turning defensive shifts into quick-strike counters, while Mike Reilly’s steady cameo without Jacob Slavin shows how well the front office matched skills to system.

Up front, we lean into the identity shift. Taylor Hall brought instant jump, first supercharging a fourth line with Eric Robinson’s straight-line pressure, then sliding beside Logan Stankhoven and Jackson Blake to form a north-south engine that wins pucks, draws penalties, and feeds the rush. The power play isn’t cashing at rate yet, but entries and shot locations are trending up; Ehlers’ speed, Jarvis’ trigger, and Stankhoven’s carry-ins are building the right habits. The top line with Aho/Jarvis/Ehlers is controlling play even as five-on-five finish lags, and we outline what needs to tighten to turn chances into goals.

We also face the hard calls. Andrei Svechnikov’s reset could unlock the rare blend of skill and force this lineup needs, while Jesperi Kotkaniemi’s early scratch raises real questions about fit, role, and timing for a move. In net, right-catching Brandon Bussi delivered a composed debut that buys recovery time for Pyotr Kochetkov and eases the burden on Frederik Andersen as the schedule stiffens. With Anaheim and LA ahead and the Vegas–Colorado–Dallas gauntlet waiting, we map the keys: keep four-line scoring alive, protect the slot off the rush, manage minutes for the heavy lifters, and let the mobile defense close early.

Highlights:

• early wins setting tone and expectations
• Slavin’s absence opening minutes for Reilly and Walker
• K’Andre Miller’s range and smooth exits transforming pace
• Gostisbehere/Nikishin balance on off side and heavy play
• fourth line reimagined with Hall and Robinson as real threats
• Hall/Stankhoven/Blake chemistry driving work rate and entries
• top line control strong while five-on-five finishing lags
• power play shot quality up, entries cleaner, patience needed
• Svechnikov simplifying to reset confidence and impact
• Kotkaniemi’s role uncertainty pointing toward a trade
• Bussi’s poised debut easing pressure while Kochetkov heals
• managing minutes and health through the west gauntlet

If this breakdown hits your hockey brain just right, follow the show, share it with a fellow Canes fan, and leave a quick review to boost us on the charts. What’s your biggest question heading into Vegas–Colorado–Dallas?

#canes #hockey #erictulsky #raiseup #stormtracker23 #rodbrindamour #lockedonhurricanes #Cansescast #thestormsurge #AlexanderNikishin #pyotrkochetkov #carolinahurricanes

Send us a text

Nick Bass, (Canes' Prospects), joins me as we break down the Hurricanes’ top prospect performers of the month, why their roles matter, and how close several are to NHL impact. From Russian leagues to the AHL and NCAA, we map the real development paths, the risks, and the upside timelines.

Highlights:
• Avramov’s power-finesse mix and VHL vs KHL usage trade-offs
• Frolov’s controlled starts and crowded goalie ladder
• Perevalov’s health, consistency and multi-tool scoring return
• Nadeau’s heavier game, five-on-five details and AHL runway
• Kol’s offensive bloom, heavy shot and PP fit
• Steady risers on defense in Legault, Nystrom and Peliavin
• Velmakin’s technical base despite limited reps
• October watchlist led by Cerrato’s breakout at Penn State
• Where Nikishin fits best and how to unlock him

Follow along for the context behind the box scores, the skills that scale, and the roles that open doors. If you enjoyed this breakdown, subscribe, share it with a Canes' fan, and leave a quick review so more people can find the show.

Send us a text

Erin, Katie & I are joined by Matt Somma as we break down a lively Hurricanes preseason: who popped at the prospect showcase, what the camp cuts mean, and how the top nine might actually score. Depth looks real, the blue line gets younger, and the door stays open for a deadline swing.

• Prospect Showcase takeaways and who advanced roles
• Nadeau’s NHL-ready shot vs development minutes in Chicago
• Lego, Badinka, Nystrom steadying the pipeline
• Kazheyev's calmer game and Primeau’s value as a third goalie
• Ehlers with Aho and Jarvis needing more first-touch shots
• Svechnikov on his off-wing and Stankoven down the middle
• Blake’s hockey IQ and finishing gap, usage to unlock the line
• Kotkaniemi’s two-way bump and the “third” fourth line with Hall
• Nikishin’s adjustment curve, partner fit, and power play timing
• Cap space as a lever for a true finisher later in the year

If you like this episode, please press the like button. If you have comments or questions, please leave those in the comment section. And of course, if you'd like to be alerted of future episodes of stormTRacker, please subscribe.

Send us a text

What are the true difference-makers for the Hurricanes this season? Hockey's return brings renewed optimism for Carolina fans, but last year's underlying metrics tell a complex story that could shape the team's fortunes.

The analytics paint a fascinating picture: Carolina dominated in expected goals but couldn't consistently convert chances, while their defense ranked 7th in expected goals against but finished a concerning 21st in actual goals allowed. This defensive paradox points to one critical storyline for 2024-25: goaltending stability. Frederik Andersen's health remains the X-factor after playing just 72 games over three seasons, while Pyotr Kochetkov presents a statistical enigma – elite in high-danger situations (92nd percentile) but below average on medium-danger shots. Can new acquisition Cayden Primeau provide the organizational depth needed?

Alexander Nikishin's arrival brings legitimate star potential to Carolina's blueline. After a tantalizing playoff glimpse last season, the Russian defenseman combines rarely-seen physical tools (99th percentile shot velocity) with what scouts describe as "unmatched two-way impact." His recent interviews reveal a player focused on earning his role through consistent work rather than reputation – music to Rod Brind'Amour's ears. Meanwhile, Jackson Blake faces the classic sophomore challenge after signing his eight-year extension. His remarkable defensive awareness (98th percentile) provides a foundation, but can he avoid the second-year stumbles that have affected countless young players?

The upcoming Prospect Showcase will spotlight future contributors like Charles-Alexis Legault and the intriguing Ivan Ryabkin, while PTO signings Oliver Kylington and Giovanni Smith represent low-risk opportunities to strengthen organizational depth. Subscribe and hit the notification bell to follow these storylines all season with Storm Tracker, your source for comprehensive Hurricanes analysis.

Highlights:
• Analytics reveal the Canes ranked first in expected goals but lagged in actual scoring
• Goaltending consistency remains a critical factor with Frederik Andersen's health concerns
• Pyotr Kochetkov excels in high-danger situations (92nd percentile) but struggles with medium-danger shots
• Alexander Nikishin projects as a top-pairing defenseman with elite shot metrics and "unmatched two-way impact"
• Jackson Blake's sophomore season expectations include building on his 98% defensive rating while improving offensive production
• Special teams showed a stark contrast: 2nd-ranked penalty kill but 24th-ranked power play
• The Prospect Showcase will feature promising talents including Charles-Alexis Legault and Ivan Ryabkin
• PTO signings Oliver Kylington and Giovanni Smith provide potential depth options, with Kylington offering more upside if he can recapture his 31-point form

Listen to future episodes of stormTRacker by subscribing to stay updated on all Hurricanes news and analysis.

Send us a text

How many points will Sebastian Aho score this season? Could Seth Jarvis crack the 75-point barrier? Will Alexander Nikishin partner with Jacob Slavin on the top defensive pair? The stormTRacker crew tackles these questions and more as they project the Carolina Hurricanes' opening night lineup and forecast point totals for every player on the roster.

With General Manager, Eric Tulsky, suggesting the current roster will likely remain intact heading into the 2025-26 season, we dive deep into potential line combinations and defensive pairings. Our analysis reveals some surprising deployments, including Jackson Blake potentially joining Aho and newly-acquired Nikolaj Ehlers on the top line, while Seth Jarvis could bring defensive stability alongside Andrei Svechnikov and Jesperi Kotkaniemi on the second line.

Highlights: 
• Jackson Blake could start on the top line with Sebastian Aho and Nikolaj Ehlers, utilizing his net-front presence with their playmaking abilities
• Alexander Nikishin may earn top-pairing minutes with Jaccob Slavin rather than being sheltered as many expect
• Seth Jarvis and Nikolaj Ehlers could both reach 75+ points if the power play improves from last season's struggles
• Jesperi Kotkaniemi faces a make-or-break season as the projected second-line center, with potential for 45-59 points
• Sebastian Aho could break the 90-point barrier with improved deployment and chemistry with Nikolaj Ehlers
• The Hurricanes need more 30+ goal scorers beyond Seth Jarvis to elevate their offensive production
• Taylor Hall brings offensive upside whether deployed in the top-six or on the fourth line with Logan Stankoven
• Team scoring shows the Hurricanes' identity as a "score by committee" squad rather than relying on a few superstars

Check out our social media for an interactive tier list where you can create your own player point projections and share them with us! We'd love to see your predictions for the upcoming season.

Send us a text

Carolina's scouting department pulled off a remarkable feat at the 2025 NHL Draft in Los Angeles. What seemed like a quiet draft with just six picks—including a late first-rounder and no second-round selection—transformed into a potential goldmine as GM, Eric Tulsky, orchestrated multiple trades to acquire three second-round picks and a high third-rounder.

Nick Bass, from Canes Prospects & Dobber Prospects, joined me to breakdown the draft for the Hurricanes & discuss highlights from the Canes' Development Camp that followed shortly after.

The Hurricanes' strategy focused heavily on Russian prospects, selecting four players from Russia among their seven total picks. This continues their pattern of finding value where other NHL teams hesitate due to concerns about transfer agreements and development pathways.

Highlights:

• Goaltender Semyon Frolov (41st overall) was the Hurricanes' top-rated netminder despite being available in the second round
• Charlie Cerrato (49th overall) surprised draft watchers but brings a competitive edge after being the top-scoring rookie in the Big Ten
• Ivan Ryabkin (57th overall) combines elite offensive skills with surprising physicality despite falling from projected first-round status
• Defensemen Kurban Limatov and Roman Bausov continue Carolina's preference for massive (6'4"+) blueliners who can skate exceptionally well
• Filip Ekberg, selected 221st overall after leading the U18 World Championships with 18 points in 7 games, may be the draft's biggest steal
• The Hurricanes' development camp showcased these prospects alongside established names like Josh Nadeau, Jayden Perron & Justin Poirier
• Recent prospect movement included trading Scott Morrow in the K'Andre Miller deal, while Russians like Stanislav Yarovoy and Vladimir Grudinin will continue developing in the KHL

Send us a text

When hockey goes quiet in the summer, the questions start flowing. stormTRacker celebrates our 2nd anniversary with a special mailbag episode answering fan questions about the Carolina Hurricanes' exciting draft picks, potential trades, roster outlook and what to expect in the upcoming season. 

Highlights:

• The podcast achieved 25,000 new views & 2,000 subscribers this past year on youtube & exceeded 250 monthly audio downloads in July for the 1st time on sites such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Amazon Music & others.
• Metropolitan Division wildcard race predictions show Columbus, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh facing challenges
• Jason Robertson trade speculation centers on Carolina's unique position with Dallas' draft picks and over $10M in cap space
• The 2025 draft excitement focuses on Charlie Cerrato, Ivan Ryabkin, and Semyon Frolov
• Trade deadline targets for the 2C position include Elias Lindholm, Pavel Zacha, Bo Horvat and, potentially, Nazem Kadri
• Pyotr Kochetkov must demonstrate consistency to become the starter with Andersen's contract expiring or will Canes' be looking at the deadline
• Could Sebastian Aho eventually inherit Jordan Staal's shutdown role as the captain ages?
• Alexander Nikishin is projected for 30-45 points depending on deployment and power play time
• Top line combinations might see Svechnikov join Aho and Ehlers, shifting Jarvis to drive the second line

Thanks to everyone who has supported stormTRacker during our first two years. We appreciate your support greatly. Follow us for continued Carolina Hurricanes coverage and analysis all season long.

Send us a text

Eric Tulsky's first full offseason as Hurricanes GM has transformed a team that was expected to take a step back into a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. After reaching the Eastern Conference Finals last season despite significant roster turnover, the Canes have methodically addressed their needs while maintaining impressive cap flexibility.

The draft showcased Carolina's strategic approach, trading down for quantity in a weaker class while identifying hidden gems like Charlie Cerrato, Ivan Ryabkin, and Filip Ekberg. Their eye for talent that meshes with the "Canes way" of playing continues to be their competitive advantage.

Free agency saw Tulsky make calculated moves, allowing veterans Burns and Orlov to depart while retaining valuable role players like Eric Robinson and Tyson Jost. The extension of Logan Stankoven at $6 million annually already looks like a steal for a player whose feisty style and scoring touch perfectly epitomize the Hurricanes' identity.

The biggest splash came through two major acquisitions: K'Andre Miller brings elite skating ability to the blueline, ranking in the 94th percentile for skating speed - a massive upgrade over the departing defensemen. Even more impressive was landing Nikolai Ehlers, who reportedly chose Carolina despite more lucrative offers elsewhere, signaling a franchise transformation into a destination team.

What makes this offseason particularly impressive is not just who the Hurricanes added, but the flexibility they've maintained with $10.6 million in remaining cap space. While fans clamor for a second-line center, Tulsky's patient approach suggests he's waiting for the perfect fit rather than making a move simply to make one.

• Draft strategy focused on trading down for multiple picks in a weaker draft class
• Unexpected selections include potential steals Charlie Cerrato, Ivan Ryabkin, and Filip Ekberg
• Strategic approach to free agency with key role players Robinson and Jost re-signed to team-friendly deals
• Logan Stankoven extended at $6 million annually, likely to prove a bargain as his career progresses
• Goaltending depth addressed through Cayden Primeau trade and Amir Miftakhov signing
• K'Andre Miller acquisition brings elite skating ability (94th percentile in top speed) to the blueline
• Nikolai Ehlers choosing Carolina despite better financial offers elsewhere represents significant franchise validation
• Team maintains flexibility with substantial cap space for potential second-line center addition during the season
• Current roster strong enough to begin season with Kotkaniemi at 2C while waiting for the right opportunity
• Defensive configuration may feature left-shot defensemen playing their off-side rather than forcing a trade

The Hurricanes have positioned themselves as legitimate contenders to challenge the Florida Panthers. With their mix of established stars, exciting newcomers, and financial flexibility, Carolina looks poised for another deep playoff run. How will these new pieces fit into Rod Brind'Amour's system? Join us throughout the season as we track the Canes' pursuit of their second Stanley Cup.

Send us a text

The Carolina Hurricanes stand at a pivotal crossroads after their impressive run to the Eastern Conference Finals. With a staggering $28.4 million in cap space and 29 draft picks (including six first-rounders) over the next four years, GM Eric Tulsky finds himself in perhaps the NHL's most enviable position to build a Stanley Cup contender.

Erin, Katie & Tom break down the Canes' surprising success last season despite significant roster turnover, examining how shrewd acquisitions like Sean Walker and Shane Gostisbehere helped the team outperform national expectations. Through revealing exit interviews, we analyze which current Hurricanes are likely moving on and which young stars like Seth Jarvis and Logan Stankoven represent the future core.

The free agent market presents intriguing possibilities, with elite talents like Mitch Marner potentially available, though questions remain about whether marquee players would choose Raleigh. We evaluate alternative options like Brock Boeser, who brings much-needed size and scoring touch, while addressing the perennial search for a reliable second-line center with candidates such as Matt Duchene.

Defensively, the likely departures of Brent Burns and Dmitry Orlov create significant holes, leading us to explore trade targets like Rasmus Andersson who could complement young phenom Alexander Nikishin. With goaltending largely set between Frederik Andersen and Pyotr Kochetkov, the Hurricanes appear just a few strategic moves away from transforming from perpetual contender to champion.

What will Tulsky do with all these assets at his disposal? After coming tantalizingly close for years, can the Hurricanes finally break through? Join us as we play armchair GM and chart the potential paths forward for one of hockey's most fascinating teams heading into a critical offseason.

Highlights:

• $28.4 million in cap space available for the upcoming offseason
• 29 draft picks over the next four years, including six first-round selections
• Sean Walker and Shane Gostisbehere emerged as key acquisitions who made immediate impacts
• Exit interviews suggest Dmitry Orlov and several UFAs likely won't return
• Seth Jarvis, Logan Stankoven, and Scott Morrow showed promising development and commitment
• Top tier free agent targets include Mitch Marner and Nikolaj Ehlers, though both present fit concerns
• Brock Boeser offers scoring and size that could address team needs
• The 2C position remains a priority with Matt Duchene as a potential short-term solution
• Defensive core needs rebuilding with Burns and Orlov likely departing
• Trade targets include Jason Robertson, Pavel Zacha, and Rasmus Andersson

Send us a text

The Carolina Hurricanes have stormed into the Eastern Conference Finals after dispatching the Washington Capitals in just five games, setting the stage for what promises to be their toughest challenge yet against the defending champion Florida Panthers.

At the heart of the Hurricanes' success stands Frederik Andersen, whose playoff performance has been nothing short of spectacular. With a 7-1 record, 1.36 goals against average, and .937 save percentage, Andersen has emerged as the best goaltender in the playoffs. What makes his performance even more remarkable is that he allowed only six goals against Washington despite facing expected goals numbers exceeding 12 – a testament to his ability to make difficult saves when they matter most.

The upcoming series against Florida presents a fascinating mirror-image matchup. Both teams employ similar systems built around puck possession, high shot volume, and strong defensive structures. They're so evenly matched that the series may hinge on small advantages: Carolina's rest after finishing their previous series quickly, Rod Brind'Amour's matchup decisions with home-ice advantage, or perhaps Andersen's elite goaltending against a Panthers offense that creates dangerous chances. Key players to watch include Andrei Svechnikov, who leads the team with eight playoff goals by emphasizing shooting over fancy playmaking, and the defensive pairing of Jaccob Slavin and Sean Walker, whose effectiveness at both ends of the ice has been crucial.

As the Hurricanes prepare for Game 1 in Raleigh, the question remains: can they exploit their advantages against a Panthers team coming off a grueling seven-game series? With both power plays struggling and penalty kills excelling, this series will likely be decided five-on-five, where small edges in execution and effort could make all the difference between advancing to the Stanley Cup Finals or seeing their season end.

Highlights:

• Freddie Anderson has been exceptional with a 1.36 goals against average and .937 save percentage
• The Canes dominated shot attempts but Washington blocked many attempts, particularly from the defense
• Andrei Svechnikov leads the Canes in goals by focusing on shooting rather than making fancy plays
• Alexander Nikishin made an impressive NHL debut, showcasing his powerful shot and physical play
• The defensive pairing of Slavin and Walker has been particularly effective at both ends of the ice
• Florida presents a mirror-image challenge with similar playing styles to Carolina
• Both teams have struggled on the power play but excel on the penalty kill
• The Panthers' bottom-six forwards have been productive, particularly the third line with Brad Marchand
• Home ice advantage gives Rod Brind'Amour control of matchups in the first two games
• The Hurricanes' rest advantage could be crucial against a Panthers team coming off a seven-game series

Send us a text