Brief News for a Slow Afternoon
The aftershock of last night’s fiasco is starting to wear off and reality is setting in. Not only do the Hurricanes have the lowest rated penalty kill in the league, they now have allowed more short-handed goals than any other team in the league. Special teams are more important than ever in today’s NHL, and they are killing this team.
What’s surprising is that in year’s past, the penalty kill always used to be pretty good. What’s changed? Perhaps Justin Williams being injured? Perhaps Rod Brind’Amour is a bit older? Perhaps Trevor Letowski has no business being out there? Perhaps the Canes best penalty killer is now in Chicago? (Kevyn Adams, not Craig Adams). I don’t have the answers but apparently neither does the Carolina coaching staff because things don’t seem to be getting better.
“The Entertainer”, Lord Eklund has a hot new rumor out today. Erik Cole to Nashville “E3″. Damn, I’m almost tempted to pay the 20 dollar fee and read more about it! NOT! By the way, if anyone wants to pay 20 bucks to read rumors, just let me know and I’ll make up some doozies for you! I’ll even make a fancy chart.
Although that’s not to say that trading with Nashville would be a bad idea. I would love to see either Shea Weber or Ryan Suter playing here in Raleigh. If they are considering a trade like that, then let’s get ‘er done!
Just a reminder, the Hurricanes and 99.9 The Fan are cranking up the popular “Canes Corner” again with an episode tonight at the Falls Tap House. The guest will be none other than Ron Francis himself! Just like before the holidays, the show starts at 6 and runs until 7. Mike Maniscalco always does an excellent job. I have a question for the Hall of Famer. Dear Ron….What has Tom Barrasso done with Cam Ward and when is the old Cam coming back?
Speaking of Mike, he’s recently updated his blog with an opinion about the current State of the Canes. You can check it out here.
About the Author: Bubba is a hockey fan/citizen journalist who has always wanted to be a sportswriter and is pursuing his dream. He also writes a Hurricanes blog for 
Tyler | Jan 23, 2008 | Reply
Letowski had a great opportunity last nite on Wade Dubewhatever’s doorstep in I believe the 3rd when it was 4-3, coulda been a game tying goal and what happens?…..he just falls. I watched the replay, no one touched him, he wasnt even forced to make any crazy moves to get the shot off. Man he is worthless. If he aint breakin his stick or fallin on his tail he aint doin nothing!! Send him down and give me ANYBODY, Aucoin, Nolan, Borer, jeez i’ll take Mike Angelidis for crying out loud, just not LETOWSKI…..what does Lavi see in him??
Bubba | Jan 24, 2008 | Reply
I’ve been on Letowski’s back a lot the past couple of years. He’s a great guy and all, but there is no way he’s been worth his 800K a year in salary.
2007-08 YTD 5 points and -13
2006-07 8 points and -8
Last year he was out with a concussion, so there was an excuse. This year I’m not sure what the excuse would be. It would be great if he could somehow round into shape and start contributing.
Jay Bear | Jan 25, 2008 | Reply
Hey,
You knew I was going to show up on the topic of Trevor Letowski. I have followed Trevor’s career from his time with the Sarnia Sting and when he helped team Canada win a gold medal at the World Juniors. Before Trev came to Carolina his season point totals were as follows 39, 22, 25, 25, 32, 28.
Then came Carolina. Is it Trevor or Carolina, he’s averaging 7 minutes less ice time. Carolina has killed his career and his confidence. It’s a shame that they misused his talent,
Jay Bear.
Bubba | Jan 26, 2008 | Reply
I was expecting the Letowski fanclub to defend him, there are a few of you out there! Like I said, I think that Trevor is a great guy and he tries hard, but maybe I’m missing something, I still don’t think he’s been worth the money. I admit it has been a rough road for him though with the constant line changes. But still, I think he needs to do more with the opportunities he has, somehow. Maybe after the break he will get hot.