Ladd Breaks Out

Reshuffled and promoted to a new line with Rod Brind'Amour and Sergei Samsonov (arguably Carolina's TOP line this season) after the departure of Cory Stillman, Andrew Ladd paid immediate dividends on Tuesday night in Boston, scoring two first period goals. It was a much needed quick start for the Canes, helping to quickly exorcise the demons from Saturday night's debacle in New Jersey.

Sergei Samsonov gave the Canes a 3-0 lead in the second period, continuing his amazing revival. Things got interesting late in the third when light scoring fourth line forward Shawn Thornton scored twice for the Bruins in less than 30 seconds. But the Canes were able to hold on in the end, earning a much needed two points and moving past the Washington Capitols for first place in the Southeast...for now.

Full Coverage HERE.

The Canes ended their last major road trip of the season at 2-3 over 5 games, which was probably not what they were hoping for but was much better than the 1-4 mark they were staring at when they arrived in Boston. They also clinched the season series with Boston (3-1), which could come in handy should the Cane's fail to capture the Southeast Division - Boston currently occupies the 8th spot in the Eastern Conference, 1 point a head of the Hurricanes overall.

Joe Corvo made his Canes debut on the blue line, paired with Glen Wesley for most of the night, he logged 19:03 of ice time, was -1 in +/-, but did notch one secondary assist on Samsonov's game winning goal. Corvo also got time with the first team power play unit, manning the point with Eric Staal, but the Canes were 0-2 on the power play for the night. Overall it was an up and down performance for Corvo, who did seem to get more and more comfortable on the ice as the game wore on. His overall skill as a skater and his powerful shot from the point were evident on several occasions. Obviously it will probably take some practice and game time with his new teammates for things to gell completely.

The Canes also received a high energy effort, especially on the forecheck from the third line of Scott Walker, Keith Aucoin and the recently recalled Ryan Bayda.

Ray Whitney moved up to the "top" line with Eric Staal and Erik Cole.

Newcomer Patrick Eaves was a scratch with a bad shoulder.


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photo: Raleigh News & Observer