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Hurricanes winger Nikolaj Ehlers comfortable in Carolina after decade with Jets
Ehlers set career highs with 45 assists and 71 points after finding chemistry on Carolina’s top lines, coach Rod Brind'Amour said.
After 10 seasons with the Winnipeg Jets, Nikolaj Ehlers is thriving with the Carolina Hurricanes during their playoff run. He signed with the organization last summer, marking a significant transition for the veteran winger.
Ehlers found success alongside Jordan Staal and Jordan Martinook after initially struggling to score. This trio clicked during the regular season, helping Ehlers finish second in team scoring behind Sebastian Aho.
Head coach Rod Brind'Amour praised the 30-year-old winger for unexpected defensive reliability, saying "His two-way game has been something we didn't anticipate." Staal noted Ehlers plays smart with and without the puck as a versatile 200-foot player.
The Hurricanes reached the Eastern Conference final after sweeping both the Ottawa Senators and the Philadelphia Flyers. The team now competes against the Montreal Canadiens for the Stanley Cup final berth.
Comfortable in his new city, Ehlers feels fully integrated into the organization. "I don't need to use the GPS to get to the rink anymore," the winger said, reflecting his smooth transition from Winnipeg.