
stormTRacker Podcast
Tom Ray
The BIGGEST Storylines to Watch in Hurricanes' 2025 Season
Episode Notes
What are the true difference-makers for the Hurricanes this season? Hockey's return brings renewed optimism for Carolina fans, but last year's underlying metrics tell a complex story that could shape the team's fortunes.
Highlights:
• Analytics reveal the Canes ranked first in expected goals but lagged in actual scoring
• Goaltending consistency remains a critical factor with Frederik Andersen's health concerns
• Pyotr Kochetkov excels in high-danger situations (92nd percentile) but struggles with medium-danger shots
• Alexander Nikishin projects as a top-pairing defenseman with elite shot metrics and "unmatched two-way impact"
• Jackson Blake's sophomore season expectations include building on his 98% defensive rating while improving offensive production
• Special teams showed a stark contrast: 2nd-ranked penalty kill but 24th-ranked power play
• The Prospect Showcase will feature promising talents including Charles-Alexis Legault and Ivan Ryabkin
• PTO signings Oliver Kylington and Giovanni Smith provide potential depth options, with Kylington offering more upside if he can recapture his 31-point form
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