Staal expects mixed emotions before Hurricanes begin Cup defence
The Hurricanes captain described his mixed emotions ahead of Tuesday’s banner ceremony and season opener against Florida; Rod Brind’Amour urged a fresh start.
Jordan Staal expects a quick emotional turn Tuesday: the Carolina Hurricanes will raise their championship banner before opening the new NHL season against the Florida Panthers at Lenovo Center (5 p.m. ET; ESPN).
The Hurricanes captain told NHL.com after Monday’s practice that the ceremony will bring “mixed emotions” because the puck drop follows almost immediately. He wants to take in the sight of the Stanley Cup with fans in Carolina’s building before concentrating on the game.
“It’s going to be a challenge,” Staal said, “but it’s going to be a cool moment I’m very excited for.”
The Cup will be on public display at the arena for the first time, according to NHL.com. Carolina clinched the championship on the road against the Vegas Golden Knights, then celebrated with its fans after returning home. Forward Jordan Martinook said the fans deserve a part in the moment and that the team feeds off their support.
Coach Rod Brind’Amour said the banner will remind the players what last season demanded, while the opener starts a new challenge. “That’s the previous season and we’re all running a different race,” he told NHL.com. He said the celebration will not count toward what Carolina does against Florida.
Of the 22 Hurricanes who played in the 2026 postseason, 20 remain with the club, NHL.com reported. Defenceman Jalen Chatfield described the bond among the returning players: “We all love each other.”
