The Carolina Hurricanes have achieved a remarkable feat this season, setting a new franchise record for the most goals scored by defensemen in a single season in Hurricanes/Whalers history. With 52 goals to their name and six games remaining, the Hurricanes’ defensive core will have the opportunity to extend this record even further.
This impressive accomplishment surpasses the previous record held by the 1980-1981 and 1979-1980 Hartford Whalers, who both had 51 goals from their defensemen. The Hurricanes’ defensive lineup boasts a range of talent, with each player contributing to the team’s success on the ice:
- Jalen Chatfield: 72 games played, 6 goals, 8 assists, 14 points
- Brett Pesce: 76 games played, 4 goals, 25 assists, 29 points
- Brady Skjei: 75 games played, 17 goals, 17 assists, 34 points
- Calvin De Haan: 53 games played, 3 goals, 10 assists, 12 points
- Jaccob Slavin: 70 games played, 7 goals, 19 assists, 26 points
- Shayne Gostisbehere: 69 games played, 12 goals, 26 assists, 38 points
- Brent Burns: 76 games played, 14 goals, 42 assists, 56 points
The Hurricanes’ record-setting defensive core has played a significant role in the team’s overall success this season. Already having clinched a playoff spot, the Hurricanes sit first in the Metropolitan Division with 107 points, three points ahead of the New Jersey Devils. Additionally, the Hurricanes hold a game in hand.
As the regular season winds down, the Hurricanes will be preparing for a playoff series against one of several potential opponents, including the New York Rangers, New York Islanders, Pittsburgh Penguins, Florida Panthers, or Buffalo Sabres. With just a few games left in the regular season, the playoff picture will soon become clearer, and the Hurricanes will know which team they’ll face in their quest for the Stanley Cup.
