Carolina Hurricanes’ television play-by-play announcer John Forslund said that there were not just a “few things wrong” with the Triangle-based professional hockey team but “many things that will take some time to fix.”
Speaking to a crowd of approximately 180 people at the Raleigh Sports Club Wednesday, Forslund said while it says a lot for the organization’s loyalty to “staying in the family,” a “much needed change’ in leadership was needed.
“Jim Rutherford needed to go outside the organization to get some fresh new ideas,” stated Forslund. “They will get that from new head coach, Kirk Muller. He will bring fresh, new energy to the team.”
Forslund spent time discussing the Hurricane’s defense in front of goalie Cam Ward noting that the dismal plus-minus ratio was indicative of the Hurricane’s poor play in the defensive zone. He indicated that while management was looking at trading for a forward it was his belief that the Hurricanes should be looking to upgrade it defensive presence.
Forslund also indicated it was a huge mistake for the Hurricane’s General Manager Jim Rutherford not to pursue in retaining Eric Cole in the offseason. Cole is now playing with the Montreal Canadians.
“I do not believe he is worth the money he signed for,” Forslund emphasized. “But I do think he took the pressure off Eric Staal. That is contributing to Eric’s struggles offensively. Rutherford would admit that there are some personnel decisions he made in the offseason that he wishes he could take back.”
Forslund also indicated that fans will see assistant coach and former Hurricanes forward, Rod Brind’Amour behind the bench assisting the team going forward. Brind’Amour has been coaching the Hurricane’s “Triple A Pee Wees” but management has been wanting to see him spending more time coaching on the bench during the games.
“That expectation (Brind’Amour behind the bench coaching) has always been there but with the addition of Muller and the struggles of the Hurricanes in winning games, the expectation is there more than ever, Forslund stated.
Raleigh Sports Club meetings are held most Wednesdays at Highland United Methodist Church in Raleigh. The meetings are from noon until 1 pm; however, the Southern Buffet line opens at 11:30 am. For more information on the club, including upcoming speakers, please visit www.raleighsportsclub.org.
– By Greg Pierce