We got a little side tracked because of conditioning camp and the numerous July signings, but we still have a few more exit reviews to complete. Next on the list is alternate captain, Ray Whitney.
"The Wizard" had one of the best seasons of his career last year as he scored 24 goals and chipped in 53 assists for a team high 77 points. He also had a respectable 11 points in 18 playoffs games. But perhaps the most amazing thing "Sugar Ray" accomplished last season was the fact that for the first time in his career, he never missed a single game. He played in all 82 regular season games as well as each of the 18 playoff games the team participated in.
Whitney was signed as a free agent by Carolina before the 2005-06 season. Just previously, he had been bought out by the Detroit Red Wings. The winger has traveled a bit around the league. Originally drafted by the Sharks, Whitney has done time in San Jose, Florida, Edmonton, (nine games), Columbus, Detroit, and now Carolina.
He seems to have found a home here as he is a leader on the ice and in the dressing room.
The Good: Again, Whitney had one of the most productive seasons in his career and led the team in scoring. For the most part, he eliminated the repetitive hooking and holding penalties he used to take in previous seasons. His defense was also improved as he finished with a +2. Whitney admitted when the season was over that he had been playing with an injury, (pin in his hand), yet he still was able to contribute. The coaching staff moved him around from line to line to help break players out of slumps because he was one of the more consistent scorers all year long..
The Bad: Not much negative to say here. He could always improve on his defense. (anyone have anything to add here?)
The Money: Whitney is entering the final year of his three year contract which pays him a reasonable $3,550,000. He's not getting any younger, (now 37 will be 38 next summer). Will he be wanting another contract for 2010-11?
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Here are the results of the previous exit polls:
Tuomo Ruutu - A
Joe Corvo - B
Erik Cole - C
Sergei Samsonov - B
Anton Babchuk - B
Jussi Jokinen - B
Chad LaRose - A
Matt Cullen - B
Eric Staal - B
Rod Brind'Amour - C
Ryan Bayda - B
Niclas Wallin - C