Stankoven talks series versus Senators, Hurricanes ruling the east, surpassing individual goals, NCAA vs. WHL

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“I think just our depth again,” Stankoven said when asked how his club was able to excel this season. “We’ve had a few guys go down throughout the year. I think we had seven 20-goal scorers this year, so different guys contributing at different times.” 

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Stankoven is confident a recent acquisition will increase team toughness during the playoffs. 

“I think being able to add Nic Deslauriers at the deadline is huge for us,” Stankoven said. “I think he kind of brings that different element that I feel like we were missing last year, a guy that’s kind of feared out there by other teams and other players. We’ll see if he’s in the lineup or not, but having him is going to be huge for us.” 

The Hurricanes – who reached the Easter Conference final last year – are poised to get over the hump, but will likely need improved goaltending to hoist the Stanley Cup. 

Neither Fredrik Andersen nor Brandon Bussi has a save percentages above .900. 

Stankoven set out statistical goals for himself before the season – 20 goals and 20 assists – and surpassed them, with 21 goals and 23 helpers. 

“There were ups and downs, for sure, and it seemed at the Olympic break things weren’t kind of heading in that direction,” Stankoven said. “But I think I’ve been playing some good hockey since the break, came back kind of rejuvenated and feel like the last stretch has been really good.” 

Considering his role on the team – a second-line centre asked to be defensively sound – Hurricanes’ head coach Rod Brind’Amour might be more pleased with another of Stankoven’s stats. He was plus-12 in the regular season. 

“It’s great to be on the plus side of things and, hopefully, that continues into the start of playoffs,” Stankoven said. 

Stankoven – who  has 11 points in his last eight games – is aiming to become the first Kamloopsian to win the Cup since Mark Recchi in 2011, when his Boston Bruins vanquished the Vancouver Canucks.