Coming into the season, pundits and fans alike expected the Hurricanes’ defense corps to be among the best in the league. So far the group has lived up to the hype with solid defensive play all over the ice and offensive contributions led by Dougie Hamilton.
But the talent alone doesn’t separate this group from the rest of the pack. A coaching staff and philosophy that allows them to play confidently and aggressively puts the Canes’ defenders in positions to prolong offensive attacks and contribute to them themselves.
Rod Brind’Amour’s system doesn’t involve the defensemen so much as it frees them.