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Skyler Brind'Amour, the son of Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour, played his first NHL preseason game under his father on Tuesday. He is on a PTO (professional tryout deal) after playing 54 games with the Charlotte Checkers last season.
Brind'Amour didn't score in his team's victory. While games don't count until the beginning of October, it was nevertheless an encouraging sign.
NHL fans took to the comment section of a Hurricanes post of the father-son duo to discuss the monumental game for the Brind'Amour family.
"A special moment for a father, son, and the franchise," one said.
"Hockey can be such a great community," another added.
"Rod was an amazing Flyer. I've had his jersey for a long time. Now, he's an unreal coach. I wish a long and amazing career to his son," one fan said.
"If he has Dad's work ethic, he will be fine," another chimed in.
The Hurricanes earned a tight 2-1 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. They have started their preseason off on the right foot — thanks in part to the Brind'Amour family — as they try to avenge last season's early playoff exit.
Rod, Skyler Brind'Amour reflect on first NHL game together
Skyler Brind'Amour may or may not make the Carolina Hurricanes' final roster. For now, he's enjoying the preseason and the chance to play for his father. After the game, he said that there were some initial nerves but they passed.
Via ESPN, he said:
"Once the game started, it was just playing hockey. I had a lot of fun playing. It's always cool to put on the NHL sweater, especially one from your hometown."
His father Rod added:
"In the heat of it, he's trying to prove himself, and we're just trying to get through a day here. But is was nice ... a nice moment."
The coach said that his son is still trying to "round out a little bit," and that he's "trying to find his way," but that this is a good opportunity for the young hockey player. Skyler anticipates a lot of coaching from his father, even on faceoffs. He excelled at that in his younger days, but lost a few during the preseason opener.
