Jordan Staal finds himself on the brink of a historic achievement after a 17-year journey in the NHL. Should he win the Stanley Cup, he will set a record for the longest wait between championships.
Staal’s Career Journey
Staal’s professional career began with the Pittsburgh Penguins. He helped the team secure a Stanley Cup victory in 2009. However, the Penguins’ success waned in the following seasons, winning only one series over three years.
Trade to Carolina
On June 22, 2012, Staal was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes. This move reunited him with his brother, Eric Staal, who had already made a name for himself with the Hurricanes, winning the Cup in 2006. Eric was also named captain in 2010.
Years of Struggle and Growth
- First six seasons with Carolina: Missed playoffs
- Eric’s trade to the New York Rangers on February 28, 2016
- Jordan remained and contributed to building a winning culture
Through perseverance, the Hurricanes made the playoffs for eight consecutive seasons. They reached the Eastern Conference Final three times: in 2019, 2023, and 2025.
Leadership and Legacy
Staal’s leadership roles have been significant. He served as co-captain alongside Justin Faulk in 2017-18, taking sole leadership in 2019. He holds franchise records for combined seasons (14) and total games played (1,079) since the franchise moved from Hartford to Carolina in 1997.
Teammates’ Perspectives
Teammate Jordan Martinook praised Staal’s resilience and commitment. He noted that Staal’s desire to win after a long absence from this position is evident in his performance. “It took him 17 years to get back to this position,” Martinook remarked. “His incredible play reflects his determination to succeed.”
Aiming for the Stanley Cup Victory
As Staal approaches the potential of winning the Stanley Cup again, he carries the weight of his long journey. This victory would not only fulfill a personal dream but also solidify his legacy in the sport.
