GM not expecting any big deals

Rutherford won't 'push the issue'

RALEIGH -- The NHL's trade deadline is now only a day away, at 3 p.m. Tuesday, and Carolina Hurricanes general manager Jim Rutherford said Sunday if his phone rings, he'll answer -- but he won't be placing any calls.

"I'm not going to push the issue," Rutherford said. "If something comes to us, I'll take a look, but I'm not going to be overly aggressive."

Of course, with the Canes 5-1-1 in their past seven going into Tuesday's game against the New Jersey Devils, Rutherford has the luxury of standing pat.

The Canes would still like to add another center with Rod Brind'Amour (knee) out for the season if possible, but aren't willing to pay much of a price.

"We're starting to run out of depth at that spot," Rutherford said. "Playing the guys we have, and with (Patrick) Eaves coming back, I'm fine with going forward with the group of guys we have. Still, in the back of my mind, it's a concern if we have another injury at that position."

Defenseman Glen Wesley, who left Saturday's 6-3 win over Washington with a head injury, is day-to-day. Eaves, who has missed all six games since he was acquired from the Ottawa Senators with a shoulder injury, could make his debut this week.