The Carolina Hurricanes are heading into the 2025-2026 season with a significantly reshaped roster, prompting questions about the team's special teams performance. After a summer of considerable change, the Hurricanes will be looking to maintain their high standards on both the power play and penalty kill with a number of new faces in the lineup.
In the 2024-25 season, the Hurricanes presented a mixed bag in terms of special teams. While their penalty kill was among the league's best, ranking number one, their power play was less effective, sitting at 25th overall. Historically, under coach Rod Brind'Amour, the Hurricanes' penalty kill has consistently been a strength, never dropping out of the top 10 since 2019-2020. The penalty kill has often been more effective at energizing the team than the power play.
However, maintaining this elite penalty kill status will be a challenge due to substantial roster turnover. Veteran penalty killers such as Brent Burns and Dmitry Orlov have moved on. The Hurricanes also saw players like Brady Skjei and Brett Pesce depart the previous offseason. To address these departures, the team brought in veterans like Sean Walker and Shayne Gostisbehere.
The Hurricanes' aggressive style on the penalty kill involves applying pressure at key moments in the defensive zone, forcing turnovers and creating shorthanded opportunities. According to captain Jordan Staal, the team's success stems from pressuring at the right times, utilizing good stick work, and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
On the power play front, the Hurricanes will need to find ways to improve their efficiency. The team has added forward Nikolaj Ehlers, who could provide a boost to the top-six forward group with his skill and scoring ability. The Hurricanes also acquired K'Andre Miller, a defenseman expected to contribute to the top two defensive pairings.
The departure of key players like Jake Guentzel, who was acquired at the trade deadline but ultimately signed with Tampa Bay, further complicates the power play equation. The Hurricanes will need to find a way to replace his offensive production and integrate new players into the system.
Several factors could influence the Hurricanes' special teams performance in the upcoming season. The team's unique approach to the game may require some adjustment for the new additions. Mixing new players into different spots within the lineup may take time to develop chemistry and understanding.
Ultimately, the Hurricanes' ability to integrate new players, maintain their penalty kill prowess, and improve their power play efficiency will determine their success on special teams in the 2025-2026 season.
