The Carolina Hurricanes know what winning ownership looks like. Since Tom Dundon took control in 2018, they’ve transformed from playoff outcasts into Eastern Conference powerhouses.
Now, with reports surfacing that Dundon has agreed to purchase the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers for $4 billion, the Hurricanes are sending a clear message to the NBA franchise about what’s coming next.
How Has Tom Dundon Already Transformed the Hurricanes?
When Dundon bought the Hurricanes from Peter Karmanos Jr. in 2018, he inherited a franchise mired in mediocrity. The team was coming off a nine-year playoff drought, and despite Karmanos Jr.’s ownership since the franchise began as the Hartford Whalers in 1994, success had been elusive.
The transformation under Dundon has been remarkable. In each of the seven seasons since he took over, the Hurricanes have made the playoffs. They’ve reached the Eastern Conference finals three times, including this past season against the Panthers. This sustained excellence represents a complete organizational overhaul.
Dundon’s winning-first mentality drives every decision. As his purchase of the Trail Blazers for a reported $4 billion moves closer to completion, hockey experts and NBA pundits believe similar changes could be coming to Portland.
In case you were wondering, Tom Dundon knows a thing or two about owning a sports franchise.
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— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) August 13, 2025
The numbers tell the story of Dundon’s impact. Before his arrival, Carolina averaged just 83 points in the regular season. Under his ownership, they now average 108 points and have captured three division titles. The team has competed in many playoff series during this seven-year run, establishing itself as a consistent contender.
What Success Has Dundon Brought Beyond the Ice?
Dundon’s influence extends far beyond wins and losses. When he took over in 2018, Carolina ranked 29th in the then 31-team league in attendance. The transformation in fan engagement has been just as dramatic as the on-ice success.
The Hurricanes now consistently rank in the top 10 for attendance. This past season, they sold out every home game at the Lenovo Center, averaging 18,795 fans per game. They’re carrying a 117-game consecutive sellout streak into next season, a testament to the excitement Dundon has generated.
Much of this success stems from Dundon’s partnership with Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour. Under Dundon’s ownership, Brind’Amour became the fastest coach in NHL history to register 300 wins. While critics and fans praise Brind’Amour’s coaching, it was Dundon’s faith in him that enabled this remarkable achievement.
The financial impact has been equally impressive. Ticket sales have increased 117% since 2018, reflecting the renewed enthusiasm surrounding the franchise. This combination of on-ice success and business growth demonstrates Dundon’s comprehensive approach to ownership.
Based on these results, once Dundon officially takes over as the Trail Blazers’ owner, Portland fans can expect similar changes to both the team’s culture and management structure. The Hurricanes’ success provides a clear blueprint for what’s possible when winning becomes the top priority.
