The Canes have so many players available that they now have five lines — at least in today's practice.
Dwight Helminen was centering one line with Tim Conboy and Patrick Eaves, and another had Michael Ryan at center with Scott Walker and Ryan Bayda.
Jussi Jokinen was working on Rod Brind'Amour's line with Sergei Samsonov.
Canes coach Paul Maurice said he expected Eaves to play Wednesday against the New Jersey Devils. Forward Scott Walker, who practiced today, will be held out, Maurice said.
A Raleigh native, Chip has worked at the N&O since 1979 and is the Canes beat writer. He can be reached at
Comments
Samsonov/Brind'Amour/Jokinen line
Tue, 03/17/2009 - 16:00 — abramsdougIt seems extremely logical to me that the third line would be Samsonov/Brind'Amour/Jokinen. It would be a great to see how a fourth line of Eaves (or Walker)/Helminen/Conboy did for a physical/energy line. I think having Conboy in the lineup contines to provide a level of physicality that is critical to the team. I'd like to see how Conboy did on a powerplay in front of the net. I can see him creating havoc for the goalie.
Boston does this
Tue, 03/17/2009 - 16:36 — Hockeydogwith Chara- sticks him in front of the net. I'd like to see Conboy there on a 2nd PP unit.
Samsonov/Brind'Amour/Jokinen has some potential, at least on paper.
Helminen/Conboy/Ryan would be my choice for a 4th line right now. Ryan has some great wheels that could be useful on the PK as a offensive threat.
I hate it for Walker, but his overall health is most important, he should reall sit out the rest of the regular season.
Who knows
Tue, 03/17/2009 - 12:44 — esteban1949in the cases on possible lines chip, what the canes could have are some set ups or pairings the Canes can or could use,if need be or called upon to use. And for Tripp being in the stands, he was probably glad in a way, but seeing he did play some pro hockey, I can see why the urge to put the ol pads on once again could still be there. I may not always agree with hm or like what he has to say, But i do respect his efforts ! BTW what details do the Canes & Rats have to work out to finish up the contract renewal for next season ? Or will that too wait ( as in Mo's case) until after the regular season is over ?
Go Canes !!