Center Eric Staal was held out of practice Friday for the second straight day but his consecutive-game streak of 342 regular-season games isn't in jeopardy.
Staal has been hampered the past week or so by some lower-body muscle tightness. He had 22:22 in ice time Wednesday against the Penguins and will be in the lineup Saturday night in New Jersey against the Devils.
”This is maintenance. We’re trying to get him back to 100 percent,” Canes coach Paul Maurice said today. “Could he have practiced yesterday and today? Absolutely. And it’s not like we’re just trying to get him through the next game."
While Staal was out, defenseman Joni Pitkanen put in his second straight practice and will go with the team to New Jersey. Maurice said Pitkanen, who has missed five of the first six games, will be evaluated again at tomorrow's morning skate.
"If he wakes up tomorrow and is exactly where he is, then he's possible," Maurice said.
The Hurricanes play their next four games on the road. After the game in New Jersey, they'll return to Raleigh, then leave on Tuesday for a three-game swing against the New York Islanders, Colorado Avalanche and Minnesota Wild.
"We're probably the only team in the league that hasn’t had a road trip yet,” he said. “We’ve had two road games, but then you’re flying after and we didn’t stay overnight or go out.
"So this is the first time guys will be able to go out to dinner and just get to know each other a bit, because we do have some new guys. I think it's good."
A Raleigh native, Chip has worked at the N&O since 1979 and is the Canes beat writer. He can be reached at 
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He needs to sit
Sat, 10/17/2009 - 22:50 — John_BurnsHe needs to sit until he feels better. The streak is not important. Having Eric Staal who can score goals is important. If he plays hurt, he'll stay hurt.
tag along...
Sat, 10/17/2009 - 14:29 — jejohn8why can't you ride with the team on their charter?
Thanks Chip
Sat, 10/17/2009 - 10:02 — esteban1949Appreciate the information...too bad you can't go on a road trip...sigh...maybe if the canes repeat and get into the playoffs again...the N&O might consider it...
Go Canes !!