After losing two games that tied the series at 3-3, the Carolina Hurricanes persevered to defeat the Edmonton Oilers 3-1 and win the Stanley Cup championship. Rookie phenom Cam Ward made 22 saves playing in net and defencemen Aaron Ward and Frantisek Kaberle scored as the Hurricanes captured their first Stanley Cup in franchise history. The team dominated most of the game, taking it to the Oilers with aggresive physical play. The Oilers falied to capitalize on a key 5 on 3 powerplay near the end of the second period and fell short of winning their first Stanley Cup in 16 years.

At the end of the game, Cam Ward was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as NHL playoffs most valuable player becoming the first rookie goalie to do so since Patrick Roy in 1986-87. NHL commisioner Gary Bettman then went on to award the Stanley Cup to 'Canes captain Rod Brind'amour. What followed was a series of Hurricanes hoist the trophy above their heads...Wesley, Hedican, Whitney, Adams and then Weight. Doug could barely lift his arms up after suffering a seperated shoulder in game six but it was great to see him out on the ice.

The Carolina Hurricanes were one of the best teams during the 2005-06 regular season and they played very well throughout the playoffs. They deserve the victory though the Edmonton Oilers (like the Flames in 2004) came as close as you can get but not win the ultimate prize in hockey. Looking forward to September already for the 2006 pre-season!