As the familiar faces return to Raleigh to prepare for the upcoming season, one stalwart is returning with a new contract: the captain, Jordan Staal. Staal returns for his 12th season in red and black. The Thunderbay, Ontario native has been the definition of Carolina hockey and will be for another four seasons.
Scoring 17 goals last season, Staal was rewarded with a new four-year contract that will be a $2.9 million hit against the salary cap. A slightly steep contract for a 35-year-old, checking forward but an essential piece to this team nonetheless.
The former Pittsburgh Penguins center has had a stellar career and provided important moments in the Canes history while being an exemplary leader but who is fit to take the reigns from Staal when that time comes?