In the midst of the offseason lull, hockey enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the upcoming NHL season after the excitement of the Entry Draft and free agency has subsided. At Last Word on Hockey, we’ve been delving into various team rankings during these dog days of summer, highlighting the best players by number, top captains, best and worst jerseys, and top first-round draft picks.
As a nod to the upcoming 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, we’re shifting our focus to the Carolina Hurricanes to explore all-time starting lineups based on nationality. Today, we’ll be examining the Carolina Hurricanes All-Time Finnish Starting Lineup.
Leading the charge in this Finnish lineup is none other than Sebastian Aho, who has solidified himself as one of the top players in Hurricanes history, potentially challenging Eric Staal for the title of the team’s best player. Aho serves as the team’s current first-line center and has become the face of the franchise with his exceptional skills and unwavering work ethic. Drafted in the second round by former GM Ron Francis, Aho has not only met but surpassed all expectations since joining the Hurricanes.
Aho’s impact on the Hurricanes is undeniable, ranking second in franchise history in points, goals, and assists behind only Eric Staal. His ability to deliver in clutch situations is unmatched, leading the organization in game-winning goals, overtime goals, and shorthanded goals. Aho’s playoff performance further solidifies his legacy, holding franchise records in playoff points, assists, and goals. His consistency in propelling the Hurricanes to the playoffs over the last six years rivals the influence of head coach Rod Brind’Amour.
Joining Aho on this all-time Finnish lineup is Tuomo Ruutu, a former Hurricanes forward who now serves as an assistant coach with the Stanley Cup Champion Florida Panthers. Acquired via trade with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2008, Ruutu made an immediate impact upon arriving in Carolina, displaying his grit and determination by suiting up for a game the same night he landed, receiving stitches, and returning to action.
Rounding out the roster are Finnish talents Teuvo Teravainen and Joni Pitkanen, along with goaltender Antti Raanta. The Hurricanes have seen their fair share of skilled Finnish players grace their lineup over the years, but Aho and Ruutu stand out as key figures in the team’s history. As we gear up for the upcoming season, these Finnish stars have left an indelible mark on the Hurricanes franchise.