Canes at Thrashers Game Preview

The Carolina Hurricanes are in Atlanta to face the Thrashers tonight for the team's 10th game in just 17 days.  While the Canes have won 4 of their last 5 contests, their starting roster is still up in the air and a couple of players will be questionable until just before game time. 

Sergei Samsonov has an upper body concern and is listed as day-to-day.  He is a possibility.  Scott Walker is very close to returning after recovering from a suspected concussion.  He could play tonight as well. 

If either of those forwards can play in this game, look for Nic Wallin to be the odd man out.  The Canes played seven defensemen and he was the extra man on the blueline against the Sabres on Thursday night.

Brandon Sutter was expected to return from Albany today, but his flight was canceled so he will play for the River Rats again tonight.  Sutter's stint in Albany has been nothing short of a success so far as the center scored three goals in just two games.  Carolina supposedly had been healthy scratching him because he was "worn out".

This will be the sixth and final meeting between these two teams this season.  The Canes hold a 3-2 advantage and won the last three contests.  Carolina has a lifetime 18-5-3-1 record in Philips Arena.

Cam Ward will start his 11th straight game.    

Look for Kari Lehtonen to be in net for Atlanta.

Ilya Kovalchuk has been on a tear lately for the birds and always needs to be a concern.

Eric Staal has been quiet lately for the Canes, but always seems to be at his best against Atlanta.

Florida lost today, so a win by the Canes could finally put them into the "playoff eight".  Even if it is just temporarily, that would be a huge lift for the team.   Game time is at 7 and it will be broadcast locally by FS Carolinas.