WASHINGTON -- The Canes will have a foursome of Finns in the lineup tonight against the Caps.
The Canes recalled forward Oskar Osala from Albany (AHL) today to replace Erik Cole, who fell ill Tuesday night. Coach Paul Maurice said Cole is suffering from flu-like symptoms, although it was not believed to be H1N1. He could return to Raleigh this afternoon.
For Osala, as well as defenseman Brian Pothier, it should be a special night. Both came to the Canes last Wednesday in the trade with the Caps that sent Joe Corvo to Washington.
Oslala, 22, spent much of the season with the Hershey Bears of the AHL. In 55 games with the Bears and River Rats, the Vaasa, Finland, native has 15 goals and 16 assists.
A fourth-round pick by Washington in 2006, Osala played two games for the Caps last season.
"Good size, good character, good speed when he gets going," Maurice said in describing Osala, listed at 6-4 and 225 pounds. "That's why it's so important for these young guys to come in, so we can get a look at them."
Osala was not able to make it in time for the Canes' morning skate at the Verizon Center. He is expected to play the wing on Rod Brind'Amour's line opposite Sergei Samsonov. Associate head coach Ron Francis filled in for Osala in part of the skate.
A Raleigh native, Chip has worked at the N&O since 1979 and is the Canes beat writer. He can be reached at 
