Tim Gleason signed a big, new contract over the offseason to be the Hurricanes' top defensive defenseman, charged with the responsibility of shutting down the opposition's best players.
In theory, he'd do the dirty work while his new partner, Joni Pitkanen, put up the points — which is why Pitkanen signed a big, new contract over the offseason as well.
But in Friday's season-opening 6-4 win over the Panthers, Gleason set a career-high with three points, all assists, including one on Pitkanen's goal in his Carolina debut.
Wasn't he supposed to be the defensive half of Carolina's top pairing?
"I am the defensive guy," Gleason said. "My role is to play defense, but the bounces went for me tonight. My job is to get it to Joni."
Both Gleason and Pitkanen were plus-3 on Friday, a sterling start for a defensive pairing making a combined $5.5 million this season. Gleason also blocked four shots, tied with Dennis Seidenberg and Frank Kaberle for the team high.
Luke has worked for The N&O since 2000. He covered the Carolina Hurricanes and the NHL before becoming a sports columnist in August 2008. A native of Evanston, Ill., he graduated from the University of Pennsylvania. He can be reached at 829-8947 or 
Comments
well, being paired with an
Sat, 10/11/2008 - 10:33 — Anonymous (not verified)well, being paired with an offensive d-man the defensive d-man should automatically see more assists.
the great point should be that
8 points by d-men
8 points by offensive players
that is pretty impressive.
Well Luke
Sat, 10/11/2008 - 07:43 — esteban1949It's a start...and a good one too !!! keep on ah lookin around sir...you'd be surprised what can be seen out there !
Co Canes !
Defense looked good - even with 4 goals against
Sat, 10/11/2008 - 01:06 — Anonymous (not verified)I thought the defense looked pretty solid for such an open game. Joni and Tim played very well together and Kaberle appeared to be back in '05-06 form. If Pitkanen puts up decent numbers, then Gleason will have a career offensive year (at least in the assists column).