Hurricanes players returning to the ice in Raleigh

Kevin Westgarth stretches while talking with Cam Ward - Peter Koutroumpis, Triangle Sports Network
Kevin Westgarth stretches while talking with Cam Ward – Peter Koutroumpis, Triangle Sports Network

RALEIGH, N.C. – A handful of Carolina Hurricanes players took to the ice at Raleigh Center Ice (RCI) on Tuesday.

Goaltender Cam Ward, defenseman Tim Gleason and forwards Kevin Westgarth and Nicolas Blanchard wet their blades during an unofficial on-ice session to continue their preparation for the team’s upcoming training camp that will take place in September.

As players are still on their own in terms of directing what they do on the ice, Hurricanes off-ice equipment and athletic training personnel were on hand to help with any needs the players had once they finished skating.

Rehabbing and conditioning continues

For those curious about the team’s marquee players, Ward as well as captain Eric Staal, who are both recovering from third-degree MCL knee sprain injuries, their recoveries are coming along very well according to head athletic trainer and strength and conditioning coach Peter Friesen.

Cam Ward preps for an informal on-ice session - Peter Koutroumpis, Triangle Sports Network
Cam Ward preps for an informal on-ice session – Peter Koutroumpis, Triangle Sports Network

“The injured guys right now, they’re all working independently at home, but we keep in touch with them,” Friesen said.

“They’re working hard and no issues are noted at this time, and they’re just getting ready for the upcoming season.”

According to the RCI schedule, another on-ice session is scheduled and booked listing the Hurricanes as the users which more than likely will have the players present on Tuesday, and according to Friesen, possibly a few more who will be returning to the area, take to the ice on Friday at 11 a.m.