NHL · Metropolitan · Est. 1972 · Lenovo Center
Updated March 16, 2026
The Hurricanes are ranked second in the latest power rankings and look every bit like a Stanley Cup favorite. Carolina's balanced attack and suffocating defensive structure have made them arguably the most complete team in the Eastern Conference.
Carolina added enforcer Nic Deslauriers from Philadelphia at the trade deadline for a conditional seventh-rounder. It's a low-cost move that signals the Canes are building for a physical postseason and don't want to be pushed around the way they were in last year's playoff exit.
With the Rangers struggling for consistency and the Devils disappointing, Carolina has a firm grip on the Metropolitan Division lead. Home-ice advantage through the Eastern Conference bracket is very much in play for a franchise that has been knocking on the door for years.