NHL 2010 Outlook: Carolina Hurricanes

Despite missing the playoffs last season, expectations are high in the Hurricanes organization for the coming year.

After finishing last season 21-10-3, Carolina will be looking for their best start to the season since 2005 when they won the Stanley Cup.  This will be key for them to return to the postseason and they have all the tools to do just that. 

With two-time 40-goal scorer Eric Staal as their captain, first-time 30-goal scorer Jussi Jokinen, and emerging talents in Brandon Sutter and seventh overall draft pick in 2010 Jeff Skinner, look for more offense from the 'Canes this coming season. They may not be the Washington Capitals, but their offense will certainly be a force to be reckoned with this coming year despite disappointing drops in production last season.

On the back end, the Hurricanes have several other proven point producers. Despite a contract dispute and a year over in Russia, Anton Babchuk will be back this coming season.  The 26-year-old had 16 goals, 19 assists and a plus-13 rating two years ago. He goes along with Joni Pitkanen, Joe Corvo, Jamie McBain, and shutdown defenseman Tim Gleason. Look for the defense to chip in more offensively and join the rush for the Hurricanes.

Finally, in goal the Hurricanes will have 2006 playoff hero Cam Ward back in net after a season filled with injuries and subpar performances.  Many think that the 26-year-old Ward will start as many as 70 games this season, but with a decent backup in Justin Peters, the Hurricanes will certainly have two goalies whom they can turn to if things start to go sour for whoever is playing in net at the time. One thing is certain though: Cam Ward will be out to prove that he is more than deserving of his six-year, $37.8 million contract extension signed before last season started.

Overall, the Carolina Hurricanes should be a much improved team come the start of the NHL Premiere in Helsinki, Finland, and they along with the "'Caniac Nation" are certainly anxious to get off on the right skate on October 7 against the Minnesota Wild.

Preseason Pick: Second in the Southeast.

Playoff Chances: Good.