With today’s reassignments of Jamie McBain and Brandon Sutter, the Canes’ roster now stands at the maximum of 23 players, making no further cuts necessary before opening night.

Paul Branecky

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Of course, more reassignments could still occur, as the team rarely carries three healthy extras. Tim Conboy, Jay Harrison and Michael Ryan are three players still on the roster who likely wouldn’t crack a healthy Canes lineup.

Ryan could eventually be reassigned once he recovers from the concussion he suffered Monday night in Atlanta, although Conboy and Harrison should stick around as the 13th forward and seventh defenseman, respectively. Harrison, the offseason signing who beat out several challengers for the spot, could potentially play the first few games of the season depending on the progress of Joni Pitkanen’s knee.

As for the reassignments, today’s move spells the end of Sutter’s attempt to win a roster spot out of camp, although he should still benefit greatly from playing big minutes in Albany. This doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll be there for the entire season, as the Canes will be in good hands if they need reinforcements at center at some point this season.

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