Pitkanen has to be the piece

As the first day of reporting approaches for the players, one player will have his share of attention and the pressure that goes along with it. On July 1, the Hurricanes pulled the trigger on a significant and emotional trade by shipping off Erik Cole to the Edmonton Oilers for Joni Pitkanen. The time for analyzing that one is long gone. It's time to move forward.

For the Hurricanes to get where they want to be this season, this Finnish blue-liner will be a the focal point of it all. There was no question, watching last year's crew go through their set of 82, that the Canes were aching for that defenseman who could put it all together – handle an abundance of minutes, anchor the power play, kill penalties and defend in his own end by managing the puck out of trouble.

They believe they have their man in this 24-year-old.

There is no question that Pitkanen possesses the skill set to get it done. He skates like the wind, handles the puck well, is an exceptional passer and, if you're looking for a booming shot, he's got it and knows where to put it.

With all that said, what has happened to this player since he was picked fourth overall in 2002? He has had his moments on both the positive and negative sides. His play has been flashy, but very sporadic. At times, his "will" has been questioned. Injuries have been an issue. Last season, for example, he missed a variety of games with a knee injury, back woes, flu virus and a groin pull. How well he could fight through some of that has troubled some observers over the years.

Here, Pitkanen will be given a fresh start – an opportunity to play his game in a system that should suit him well. He may be the most-gifted defenseman the Hurricanes have ever had on their roster.

But folks, remember this "piece," because if the Canes secure their fourth division tittle this season and are partaking in the "chase for the silver chalice," Joni Pitkanen will have to be the "man."

It's up to him

This is his third stop along the way in a very short career. Philadelphia and Edmonton are two tough markets to play in for a developing defenseman. The Hurricanes have secured this player at the perfect age, when his development should start to kick in. The contract he was awarded has given him security. Now the rest is up to him.

Pitkanen is one of those athletes who should be in the position to challenge himself this season. It's still a proving ground. He has been a 40-point guy, but his production dropped to the mid-twenties last year. In this system, 40 points and much more should be very achievable.

He's also reaching an age where his durability should kick in. Sometimes young players struggle with the aches and pains that go along with "the grind." Again, his position in the hierarchy on the "back end" should make him realize that he's a valuable piece of what goes on, and he should consequently grab on to the responsibility.

His partner

He will need a solid partner to complement his game and work in concert with his skill set. Tim  Gleason will likely be that guy.

The coaches have obviously thought about the pairings, and it looks like this is how the top two will be rolled out. I think Gleason is ready to 'bust out' in many ways. One of the most important will be in terms of leadership. His "rub off" effect on Pitkanen will be vital, mostly on the ice. Gleason will be rugged, block shots and be physical. Most importantly he will have to Pitkanen's back.

Pitkanen will take risks. He is plenty quick enough to follow the play up the ice and circle back. He will "wheel" all over. Gleason, on the other hand, will have to be the steady guard dog. That aspect of the give and take between defense partners will be vital.

Laviolette factor

The coach has been given the perfect piece in terms of talent for "his" system. Laviolette will have to really reinforce his confidence. The best way any coach can do this is through distribution of ice time. Pitkanen has proven he can log 24 to 28 minutes a night. That will be a "no brainer "for this coach.

Laviolette is one of the best in terms of making sure that his best players realize they have played and played a lot at game's end. Long before Laviolette became a "Cup Winner'" he was getting great things out of some of the defensemen he has been able to mentor.

One that comes to mind is Adrian Aucoin, then of the New York Islanders. Under Laviolette, he was among, if not the, NHL's leader in terms of ice time. Aucoin, a good defenseman, doesn't have the raw talent of Pitkanen, but is a very good offensive player. In New York, he was able to play his best hockey and earn a couple of huge free agent contracts along the way.

The plan for Pitkanen is to relish his days in this system, and, moving forward, become a mainstay on the Carolina defense.

By the way, go to the NHL.com video portal and check out his goals from last year – you will like what you see.

Enjoy your Monday!