RALEIGH, N.C. – The Carolina Hurricanes concluded their 2024-25 season with a year-end media session led by Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour and General Manager Eric Tulsky. Reflecting on a season that featured the team’s highest playoff win total since 2006, the duo discussed future plans as they aim for another championship.
The Hurricanes are optimistic about their potential moves this summer, with significant cap space and trade capital available. Tulsky emphasized their goal to build a team capable of competing annually: “Our goal is to win a Cup, and to win more Cups after that. We’re trying to build a team that can compete year after year, but competing isn’t enough…the picks and prospects can help us by producing players in the future, they can help us by being used in trades to bring in players who help us now.”
Tulsky reiterated his long-standing view on improving the roster: “until we have the 20 best players in the league, there’s always room for improvement.” He also mentioned responsible spending has put them in an advantageous position.
On future targets, both Tulsky and Brind’Amour focused on enhancing team performance while maintaining their strong culture. Tulsky stated, “We have a phenomenal culture here…We want to find players who can play and who will fit.”
Reflecting on last summer’s departures of key players, Brind’Amour acknowledged initial concerns but praised replacements like Sean Walker and William Carrier for stepping up: “Then you had time, and it was like ‘okay.’ Immediately, within a couple weeks, we’re like, ‘we’re in good shape.’”
Tulsky shared confidence about the current squad: “I knew coming in that we were in position to keep taking steps forward.” Looking ahead at free agency decisions involving Brent Burns and Dmitry Orlov among others remains ongoing.
Brind’Amour expressed satisfaction working with Tulsky as GM: “It’s been a learning curve for both of us…but I think it was good.” He also reflected on postseason interactions with Florida’s Paul Maurice regarding player-focused handshake lines.
Both leaders conveyed continued hunger for success with hopes of achieving victory not only for themselves but also fans experiencing memorable games at Lenovo Center.
As preparations begin towards next year’s draft (June 27-28) followed by free agency (July 1), all eyes remain fixed upon what lies ahead during this pivotal offseason period.
