lines as is. With these changes the new four forward lines would help give two of the
Hurricanes skilled players more ice time. The new lines would look like this: First line
LW- Tlutsy,C- E. Staal, RW- Semin, Second line LW- Skinner, C- J. Staal, RW- Nathan
Gerbe, Third line LW- Dvorak , C- Malhotra, RW- Ruutu, Fourth line LW- Lindholm, CRiley Nash RW- Dwyer.
The second issue requires a little more movement, mixing up the current defensive lines
won't be enough to solve the defensive woes. The first step would be to give Mike
Komisarek more time and limit that of Ron Hainsey. Then the Hurricanes will have to
make a dramatic trade and chose to trade Justin Peters or Cam Ward. Ward has more
value on the current market but Peters is the better bargain if they can sell high. There
are a few teams who have underrated defensive players but could really use an
experienced goaltender like Cam Ward. The first and best option comes out of Calgary
although you might have to wait until they get a new general manager. Calgary is
looking for an experience goalie to fill the void of Miikka Kiprusoff and could give up Kris
Russell in exchange. The next option would be to talk to the New York Islanders and
see if they are willing to trade Travis Hamonic or Lubomir Visnovsky in exchange for
Ward. Finally if none of those options worked out, call the Winnipeg Jets they could use
a goalie and have a ton defensive depth.
After the Hurricanes execute all of these moves they will have a much better chance of
making the playoffs and making a run for the cup. They have a good young team with
great chemistry and a good offense but a horrible defense. Lucky they are only three
points out of a wildcard for the postseason. A storm is brewing in the Metropolitan
division, watch for the Hurricanes to continue their strong run as the season finishes.
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