Suzuki was among the first group to practice on Thursday morning. Head coach Rod Brind'Amour tabbed the newly signed forward, who he referred to as "kid," to take the first post-drill penalty shot. Suzuki buried a backhander, forcing the goalies to skate the length of the ice down and back.
"Heavy pockets!" Jordan Martinook hollered.
"New deal, new me," Brett Pesce joked.
The Hurricanes' 2019 training camp roster is arguably the deepest its been in years at all positions. Because of this, and because of the transfer agreement between the Canadian Hockey League and NHL that bars CHL players from being assigned to the American Hockey League until age 20, Suzuki is likely headed back to play with the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League this season and perhaps even next, as well.
Until that roster decision is made, Suzuki continues to absorb any and all knowledge he can. He's a first-round talent with a bright future ahead of him, and inking his entry-level contract is yet another meaningful step toward realizing his dream.
"I've learned a lot in just this last month," he said. "This is a great place to play. All the guys have been great, and I'm looking forward to the future."