Harrison-Faulk pairing helps both defensemen grow

The Hurricanes have paired rookie defenseman Just Faulk with defenseman Jay Harrison, a nod to Harrison's solid work throughout the season.

Last year, Harrison would have been considered the weak line among the team's defensemen, but he has raised the level of his play and he has become one of the consistent performers in the defensive zone.

Now, Harrison deserves some credit for the rapid development that Faulk has shown.

Some of that was on display Friday night, when the Hurricanes lost 4-3 in overtime at Colorado. Faulk and Harrison logged the most ice time of any of the Hurricanes.

The pairing of Harrison and Faulk has allowed the defense to become solid during recent weeks after there were some holes earlier in the season. This has become a good fit and it could be another factor in Harrison gaining stability in the organization because it's bound to be important for Faulk to be put in comfortable situations.

The Hurricanes wrap up a three-game road trip Monday night at Montreal.

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