Gameday: Wild at Carolina

Last update: November 14, 2009 - 11:32 PM

Preview: A battle between the worst teams in the East and West, and history can be made. The Hurricanes are winless in their past 14 games (0-10-4). Another loss would set a franchise record for longest winless streak dating back to its Hartford Whalers days (1979-97). Carolina's last win and lone regulation win this season came against Florida on Oct. 9 (7-2). The Wild, which is 0-3 all-time at Carolina, wraps up a four-game trip (1-1-1), losing its past two to Tampa Bay and Washington.

Players to watch: Hurricanes LWs Ray Whitney and Jussi Jokinen lead with 10 points apiece. Former St. Cloud State F Matt Cullen has seven points. Carolina C Rod Brind'Amour and Wild D Brent Burns are tied for last in the NHL at minus-14 each. C Mikko Koivu's close friend, Carolina F Tuomo Ruutu, is one assist shy of 100. Koivu has 10 points in his past 10 games. RW Martin Havlat, a minus-13, has 15 points in 17 career games vs. Carolina.

Numbers: The Canes are off to their worst start in franchise history (eight points in 18 games). ... The Canes have the 28th-ranked power play at 12.7 percent. ... The Wild is 4-1-1 against the Eastern Conference after going 12-5-1 against the East last season.

Injuries: Wild D Shane Hnidy (foot) is questionable and LW Chuck Kobasew (upper body), LW Petr Sykora (concussion) and C Pierre-Marc Bouchard (concussion) are out. Carolina C Eric Staal (upper body) and G Cam Ward (lacerated leg) are out and RW Scott Walker (undisclosed) and C Stephane Yelle (lower body) are doubtful.

MICHAEL RUSSO