Williams injury can force Canes' hand
Feb 16, 2009
Tags: Hockey, Carolina Hurricanes
The injury bug continues to bite Justin Williams, a broken hand suffered in last night's win over Buffalo is just the latest in a string of misfortunes for Williams. The immediate question for Williams is how long will he be out, and early reports say a month with possible surgery required to fix the broken bone. But this is now a chance for two players to expand their role.
Patrick Eaves will get the first shot at playing with Matt Cullen and Ray Whitney. Eaves has been playing his best hockey of the season going back to the Vancouver game and extended minutes should give him more confidence. Eaves is not afraid to throw his body around, but much like Williams, his ability to stay healthy has more to do with his production than the opponent.
Chad LaRose who has played well of late when combined with Rod Brind'Amour and Jussi Jokinen, but the feisty winger has something special with Matt Cullen and might get the opportunity to fill Williams role.
Carolina has not announced who will be called up to take the open roster spot, but best guest is Jakub Petruzalek who fit in nicely in his two games with the team out west. This situation might also force the Hurricanes to make a trade before the deadline if the Canes believe they are a playoff contender.
