We're mere days away from the Stanley Cup Finals and, yet again, the Detroit Red Wings are not in the picture. That said, there's still plenty to get excited about with this run -- and one former Red Wing that's up for his first career Cup.
Shayne Gostisbehere played for the Red Wings three seasons ago in 2023-24. He helped the team manage their best season in years, missing the playoffs by just one point in the standings. In 81 games with the Red Wings, Gostisbehere scored 10 goals and 46 assists for 56 points -- the highest scoring season by a defenseman the Red Wings had in years.
While Gostisbehere only played a single season for the Red Wings, it's clear that he's one of the biggest reasons the Carolina Hurricanes are now competing for the second Stanley Cup in their franchise history.
Shayne Gostisbehere's playoff dominance
The 33-year-old veteran defenseman was a major part of Carolina's success this season, scoring 50 points in 55 games. While he hasn't reached that scoring pace yet, he's still a key contributor to this roster. Gostisbehere's six points are second among defensemen on the Hurricanes behind K'Andre Miller, who has just a two point lead.
Former Red Wings thriving outside Detroit
Seeing a former Red Wing succeed outside the organization is nothing short of frustrating. From Elmer Soderblom's return to form with the Pittsburgh Penguins to Vladimir Tarasenko's 22-goal campaign, this season has been extremely frustrating for Red Wings fans.
It's unclear whether this is a culture issue or something else, but it's clear something has to change in Hockeytown before it's too late.
While some have speculated that general manager Steve Yzerman didn't do enough to convince Gostisbehere to stay, this is the veteran's second go-around with the Hurricanes. It's clear something drew him back to the organization, whether it be culture or talent, that Detroit lacks in some way. If it's something that the Red Wings can control, they should look at Gostisbehere's season as a learning experience.
What does it take to create a winning culture? Sure, the Hurricanes have warm weather, but climate isn't what comprises a good team. Consistency is the driving force of any would-be contender, and the Hurricanes are no exception. The Canes have consistent locks in the playoffs for years, yet this is their first time (with this current core) they've made the Stanley Cup Finals.
Rather than let the adversity of failure define them, they chose to keep pushing. Say what you will about the Hurricanes, you can't deny they're a tenacious team. Unlike the Red Wings, they don't deflate when the going gets tough. They rise to the occasion. Part of that is why they've got an impressive 12-1 record in the playoffs. Culture can make or break a team.
The Red Wings can learn a thing or two from the Hurricanes on that front.
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