The Hurricanes, Florida Panthers and Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning have dominated a top-heavy Central Division, and a playoff berth for Carolina was a mere formality considering a top-four division finish was all it needed.
On Friday the Canes did one better and now the team can target a return to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time since 2005-06, when they beat the Edmonton Oilers for the trophy in seven games.
This year s team has that potential. It has a balanced scoring attack paced by Sebastian Aho, whose 24 goals and 57 points lead the team. Vincent Trocheck is posting nearly a point per game with 17 goals and 26 assists through 45 matchups.
That doesn t mean it s the right decision.
A year ago, the Los Angeles Chargers weren t going to start quarterback Justin Herbert, but an injury to Tyrod Taylor threw him to the wolves. He responded well, to say the least, throwing 31 touchdown passes against 10 interceptions with eight 300-plus-yard games behind a bad offensive line.
Not every example will work out so spectacularly. But rookies, especially quarterbacks, need to be out there, getting as many reps as possible to adapt to the pro game quickly. It also benefits the team to get the most usage out of those cheap first five years of the contract and recent breakouts like Herbert, Josh Allen and Joe Burrow suggest that more than ever, rookie passers are arriving ready for the modern game.
Broncos move up in second round for a running back
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North Carolina star known for breaking tackles By Arnie Stapleton AP Pro Football Writer
Friday, April 30, 2021 7:49 PM North Carolina running back Javonte Williams impressed the Denver Broncos during his pro day, and Denver moved up to draft him in the second round of the draft Friday night. Gerry Broome/Associated Press
Broncos move up in second round for a running back North Carolina running back Javonte Williams impressed the Denver Broncos during his pro day, and Denver moved up to draft him in the second round of the draft Friday night.
Former North Carolina running back Michael Carter will have a shot at immediate fantasy football relevance after being selected by the New York Jets on Saturday in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL draft.
HEIGHT: 6'5" WEIGHT: 219 lbs POSITIVES Excellent blend of height and length along with top-tier athleticism. Plays with toughness and a competitive streak.