18 AND 2...IT'S THE ONLY WAY...

Watching the Hurricanes meet the challenge of their most important game to date Saturday was a thing of beauty on many fronts. Although the game, at times, was far from an epic, it's finish continued down the same resilient road the Canes will need to make the postseason.

The cliche that's often used is, "Your best players have to be your best players". However, this is an accurate assessment of pro sports, which is why they are compensated at different levels...I know you get it.  The Hurricanes are finally starting to play as a team with every man involved. The last two games are a perfect example of this.

THE BEST...

Eric Staal scored a very important goal for the Hurricanes last night to lead the comeback. Just when it looked like the odds were stacked against them (penalty shot goal, disallowed goal, etc. ), Staal seized the moment and got it done. The play was a microcosm of the game. Down and out in back of the goal, Erik Cole somehow edged the puck to Staal, and all of a sudden it was in the net. You can see the fire in Staal's eyes when these things happen - there is a belief that he and his team can accomplish this no matter the circumstances.

Erik Cole is starting to show up as a penalty killer. It's taken awhile to get to this point, but it seems like this move can only enhance his feeling of self importance. The more minutes, the more situations he is involved in, the more we see the best from "26."

Finally, there is Ray Whitney. He could not have had a better game on Thursday in leading the Canes to their  win over the Penguins, but last night he cashed in a "prime time" moment. The ice conditions (due to ridiculous scheduling) appeared to be brutal at best, not really conducive to Whitney's style. But it was beautiful combo play from Joe Corvo to the "Whiz" that sealed the game. The "Best" came through.

NEW FACES...

The best player on the ice last night, and over the last few games for that matter, was Sergei Samsonov. His creativity is always evident, but his relentless work of the fore check was admirable.

Joe Corvo, fresh off the sick bed, made a difference. One can see a different look to the power play with he and Cullen manning the points...and they don't even have their timing down yet.

How about Wade Brookbank getting the ball rolling. This guy has been a big difference maker in their team dynamic, and he scored early as the Canes came out of the gate ready to play.

THE REINFORCEMENTS...

Keith Aucoin, Ryan Bayda, Casey Borer and Tim Conboy played an integral role in the win last night. Their energy and enthusiasm, just for getting a chance to play at this level, comes at the right time. Their intensity every shift, even though at times they may make the odd mistake, is adding to the proper mindset that is helping pull this team in the right direction. Their attitude is infectious.

THE VETS...

On the back end you can't ask for more than what Glen Wesley, Nic Wallin and Frank Kaberle have given this team over the last two games. Hidden in the emotion of the two wins was a pretty lock tight defensive concept. That was no more evident than after the goaltending change when it took the Panthers over nine minutes to get a shot on goal.

Trevor Letowski has been nothing but  a pro in his two seasons as a Hurricane. At times, whether due to injury or sporadic play, he has had a hard time finding a spot in the line-up. But, he has kept his mouth shut and has worked hard and now is playing a prominent role between Samsonov and Andrew Ladd. He made it happen last night in a big way. This game always finds a way to reward those who work hard.

On the subject of working hard, Scott Walker and Andrew Ladd on their respective lines did the "grunt" work. They were strong on the boards and the first in on the fore check - you can point to their play and you can see that Cane identity coming back.

THE SICK BAY...

Joe Corvo and Tim Gleason both jumped in feet first after a tough few days with the flu.  It was obvious that both were not at full speed, but  the playoffs have started for all practical purposes, and you knew they would be in. Gleason gave the team a spark again with his challenge of Branislav Mezei, who backed down. That was key moment in the game.

Matt Cullen surprised everyone with his return. He was rusty at times, but looked good at others. Today will be a big day for Cullen to get through to see if he's okay for tomorrow's matinee at the "Rock."

THE GOALIES...

It isn't often that both goalies get involved, but they did last night. A screen shot, a deflection and pretty good shot by Nathan Horton did the damage on Cam Ward. The goaltending change appeared to be the "spurt" the team needed. Ward has been on quite a run and it was time for John Grahame to enter the picture. He was heroic at the end, making sensational saves down the stretch. It's a team game and this was a night to play that old ditty, "It takes two".

The Hurricanes have more work ahead..a huge week, in fact. New Jersey on Monday, Boston on Tuesday and then more Southeast action at home with Atlanta Thursday and Washington Saturday.

For them to continue to be successful it will be 18 and 2, that 's the way to bring out their best.

See you Wednesday !