Taylor Hall (© David Kirouac-Imagn Images)The Carolina Hurricanes acquired Taylor Hall from the Chicago Blackhawks back in late January. The 33-year-old forward had been the subject of trade rumors during the season because of his pending unrestricted free agent status and the Blackhawks being out of the playoff race early. Thus, the Hurricanes brought him in, and it's a move that continues to benefit them.
Hall's start with the Hurricanes was a bit slow, as he had just two points in his first 12 games. However, as he became more adjusted to his new club, the 6-foot-1 winger regained his offensive touch, posting 16 points in his final 19 games of the regular-season. With this, he gave the Hurricanes exactly the kind of secondary offense they were hoping for, and it has now translated over to the playoffs.
In Game 1 of the Hurricanes' first-round series against the New Jersey Devils, Hall recorded two assists. With this, he undoubtedly played a role in the Hurricanes' 4-1 win over the Devils in Game 1.
While Hall was held off the scoresheet in Game 2, he was still noticeable, finishing the night with two shots on goal in 14:26 of ice time.
If the Hurricanes hope to go on a real run this post-season, they will need their veterans like Hall to step up. So far, the 2010 first-overall pick has done just that, and he is continuing to prove to the Canes that they made the right call acquiring him during the season.
It will now be fascinating to see how Hall builds on his play for the Hurricanes from here.
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