Vancouver Canucks head coach Manny Malhotra faces a Carolina Hurricanes reunion Thursday, with captain Jordan Staal still on the roster.
The Story
The Vancouver Canucks’ game against the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday will include a reunion for Canucks head coach Manny Malhotra, who previously played for Carolina.
Malhotra signed with the Hurricanes in 2013 and appeared in 69 games during his one season in Raleigh. The General Manager who signed him at the time was Jim Rutherford, and Rod Brind’Amour served as the team’s assistant coach.
Even though nearly a decade has passed since Malhotra played for Carolina, one player from that era remains with the club. Jordan Staal was 25 at the time and is now the Hurricanes’ captain.
Ahead of Thursday’s game, Malhotra was asked about Staal, who captained Carolina to a Stanley Cup last year. At morning skate, Malhotra said: "When you talk about professionalism and doing it the right way, that's really what he embodies," adding that Staal “hasn't changed his game” and “does everything that you ask him.”
The teams’ connection also reflects their shared position. As centres, Malhotra and Staal spent limited time on the ice together during Carolina’s 2013-14 season, logging 10:15 together at five-on-five. They also worked together on the penalty kill, recording 4:58 in total.
Carolina swept the season series last year, winning both matchups. Game time for Thursday’s meeting is set for 4:00 p.m. PT.
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