RALEIGH - Despite a disappointing season which saw the Hurricanes start out on top only to quickly sink to the bottom, there is reason for optimism in Carolina. In the final 4 games of the season, the Hurricanes were 3-0-1 due to excellent performances by two of their key assets going into next season: Josef Vasicek and Robert Esche.
Esche, who won Goalie of the Week for his efforts, has been tagged with the role of #1 goalie on a team notorious for letting in too many shots. Since his arrival via trade, he has performed admirably, but in the final weeks has elevated his game to a level which has the hometown fans encouraged.
"I think there was definately an adjustment period moving from backup to starter," admits Esche, "but now I'm feeling much more comfortable in the role and getting to know the guys in front of me better. I think you will see a big improvement next season."
Vasicek has been hot and cold all season, but finished on a strong note with some excellent games offensively. The young centre, whose contract was extended mid-season to avoid a messy off-season free agency negotiation, has had to endure a constant changing of linemates as GM Norm Donovan traded and re-traded his assets in a rebuilding effort.
"It's been difficult, for sure, but at this level you need to be able to play with an assortment of players," said Vasicek, "the days where you have the same wingers for 2 or 3 seasons are long gone."
The late season wins are encouraging to the players and coaches but, as rumour has it, not the management staff. Inside sources have hinted that Donovan suggested to head coach Joel Quenneville that a last minute losing streak to better their draft position might be for the betterment of the club, but the coach denies it.
"That request has never been made of me and quite frankly if it had, I still wouldn't have gone along with it. We are paid to win games and provide the fans with entertaining hockey - that doesn't change just because we are out of the playoff picture."