What happened: ESPN, sharing NHL footage, spotlighted Jordan Staal as "the definition of a captain," praising the Carolina veteran for leading by example. The recognition lands as Staal continues to anchor the Hurricanes deep into the Stanley Cup Final.

Why it matters: Staal's two-way play and steadying presence have been central to Carolina's run, including his Game 4 effort that tied the Stanley Cup Final. His championship pedigree gives the Hurricanes a veteran compass in the highest-stakes games of the season.

What to watch: Watch whether Staal can sustain that form and on-ice leadership as the Stanley Cup Final continues.