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MORRISVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — Carolina Hurricanes center Charlie Cerrato leads the way at Hurricanes prospects camp at Invisalign Arena. This is the second year Cerrato has camped with the Canes after signing his three-year, entry-level contract less than two months ago.
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“It’s pretty cool, honestly. You come around last year and see how they act and the habits they have and the culture they built, and to see them go on and win the Cup, it’s really cool and really cool to learn from, and hopefully bring it into camp this year,” said Cerrato.
The Canes’ second round pick in the 2025 draft, Cerrato was having a fantastic sophomore campaign at Penn State before injuries cut his season short. After missing two months, Cerrato returned to the Nittany Lions lineup, finishing his season with seven goals and 20 assists in 23 games.
“It was pretty frustrating — a lot of set-backs, and recovery took a little longer than I thought, so in this last month and a half I’ve been able to grind in the gym and take some time off the ice,” Cerrato said. “It’s been very beneficial. It’s nice not hurting anymore.”
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After getting healthy, Cerrato signed his pro contract and joined Carolina’s American Hockey League affiliate, the Chicago Wolves, gaining valuable professional experience during the Wolves’ long playoff run.
“It’s incredible,” said Cerrato. “Pro hockey is a lot different — you’re playing against bigger, faster, stronger guys, and the off-ice part of it too where you go from college and you’re with your buddies 24/7, to the pro’s [where] you’re with guys who have families, so it’s very independent and you learn to set a schedule and get into a routine.”
The 21-year-old Cerrato is still at least two years away from fighting for a spot on the Canes roster, but the Hurricanes organization feels he has all the makings of an NHL second line center.
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