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Justin Williams to make season debut at perfect time for Hurricanes

By Zack Smith

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 20: Justin Williams #14 of the Carolina Hurricanes looks on against the Washington Capitals in the first period in Game Five of the Eastern Conference First Round during the 2019 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Capital One Arena on April 20, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 20: Justin Williams #14 of the Carolina Hurricanes looks on against the Washington Capitals in the first period in Game Five of the Eastern Conference First Round during the 2019 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Capital One Arena on April 20, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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Justin Williams will play in his first game since re-signing with the Hurricanes this season.

“I’m ready. Ready to rock.” Justin Williams is ready to make his return to the Canes and boy does it come at a good time. Coming off of three-straight losses and with just two games remaining until the All-Star break, Williams will have a chance to get his feet wet and help get some momentum going leading into the break. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Williams a little rusty, but there is no question about his ability. “I’m nervous before every game I play. I’m going to have nerves, but the one thing you never question is your ability,” Williams said. “I’m going to go out there, work my tail off and let my instincts take over.”

How much of an impact will he make?

It is unsure which line he will play with, but signs are pointing to the fourth line with Lucas Wallmark and Brock McGinn. Carolina Hurricanes Editor Michael Smith reported that Williams skated with this line in practice on Saturday. Another thing to watch for is if he makes an appearance on the power play. Regardless, it should be a great game Sunday and an interesting story to watch moving forward.

It’s also worth noting that Williams’ return comes on the heels of Dougie Hamilton’s gruesome injury on Thursday night. Hamilton suffered a broken fibula and has already undergone surgery. The Canes gave an indefinite recovery period.

When Williams returns to the ice he will be welcomed by an expected capacity crowd inside PNC Arena at 5:00 PM on Sunday evening. Carolina enters the contest just one point back of the Flyers and Blue Jackets in the Eastern Conference wild card standing. The Canes are favored to beat the Islanders tonight (-180), with the over/under sitting at 5.5.

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