QUICK HITS

Here are some quickies form today's workouts.

Is the "Swagger" Back?....

One thing I have always admired about Erik Cole from his very first training camp is the amount of self confidence he has. As a young player fresh off the campus of Clarkson he wasn't afraid to assert himself on the ice - I mean this in the physical sense in terms of his ability.

In addition he was the guy that wasn't afraid to ask a question about a drill. Most young players head for the back of the line and play follow the leader. This wasn't the case for Cole. Ever since, he has blossomed into an abrasive talent on the ice while exhibiting enormous confidence off of it. For me, some of this went away last season.

Erik Cole didn't seem like a guy that was enjoying himself. His play for the most part was solid, but there were times that it was inconsistent. His mood was not the same. I'm sure he didn't feel right for most of the season, still relatively fresh off a major injury and trying to help his team and himself through a "rough" year.

After a refreshing summer I see a change. Through the first few days of workouts I would consider him one of the Hurricanes' best players. His strength seems to be better and his skating is where it should be - a cut above. But off the ice, I see a happy guy. Maybe that Cole "swagger" is coming back. If so, he has the talent to be one of the best players in hockey. If he is, the Canes will be on their way...with a "swagger."

Power Play Time...

The power play units looked like this: Brind'Amour, Williams and Whitney with Cullen and Stillman on the points. The next unit had Staal, Cole and Walker with Kaberle and Hamilton on the points.

Let's just say this - Jeff Hamilton is blessed with a very good "skill set". His hands are magical and he has a big shot. The word from Chicago is that he is very capable of manning the point and you will love his forehand to backhand move in the shootout. 

Ron Francis did a great bit of instruction today during the PP practice. Look for him to have added input all season long with his player development duties.

Trying to make the CUT...

Ryan Bayda had a tremendous game on Sunday versus Washington. He's a player on the "cusp" trying to earn a spot. Bayda has always shown promise and has made a mark when called upon at this level. Along the way he has battled his share of injuries. He has everyone's attention but he needs to continue to be consistent. He'll play in tonight's scrimmage and needs to continue to stand out. There may be an opening, but the door could close quickly.  Making the cut is never easy, but for now he may have the "inside track."

See you tomorrow !