Hurricanes players react to massive overhaul

From the moment Hurricanes Board President Doug Paisley walked into the ‘Canes dressing room to address the players Wednesday morning, veteran defenceman Nick Walters knew something was up.

“When the board members and President are in the room, you know something significant is going to happen.”

It was then that the players realized that within 24 hours the team had replaced not only their Head Coach, but the General Manager as well. It’s a situation forward Tyler Wong is still adjusting to.

“It’s definitely tough losing a coach and a GM that brought me here. And having Drake gone after a couple years, it is tough.”

Walters knows changes in management is just a part of Junior hockey, but he still feels for his teammates.

“I don’t like it. It’s not a good time for the guys in the room right now. But it is part of the game and part of the business side of things.”

For forward Jamal Watson, the two men let go were integral parts in his development. He was given his Captaincy by Drake Berehowsky and Brad Robson was part of the group that drafted him. Although he’s moving on with a new man in charge, it’s still a difficult process for the 19 year old.

“It’s really tough to see guys that helped you develop in this league and get better leave the organization.”

The challenge now for the Hurricanes is to take their focus away from management, away from the surrounding noise, and focus on their play on the ice.  Regardless of the new system, Walters will be ready.

“It’s a game that we’ve all grown up playing. The x’s and o’s might change, but at the end of the day it’s about how hard you fight. I don’t think things will change that much, other than the systems.”

New general manager and head coach Peter Anholt held his first practice with the team Thursday night.