Team: 2024-25 Carolina Hurricanes

Initial Creation Date: Mar. 13, 2024

Published: Mar. 29, 2024

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

With the Canes window being wide open, you simply push the envelope. Where the team isn't as defensively deep as in years past, I think this a blueline that competes. Unlike years past, this roster has some more offensive bite.

Signings:

Guentzel: moved the kitchen sink to get him, and he has been fantastic. The caveat here is I don't see an offer being more than Svechnikov. So, the term with the same cap hit is where I went. Definitely the caveat; as there is an argument to be made he could he get more on the market.

Pesce: yes, brought him back. A down season for him this year, but we all know what he is.

Chatfield: a great 3rd pairing option who simply seems.to fit the Canes system. If it isn't broke don't fit it.

Kulikov: another solid 3rd pairing option that should prove inexpensive. Value in that he can play his weak side, and an ability to play up the line up if needed. Has bite to his game.

Comtois: has shown very well in the AHL, and at the very least can be a solid 4th liner. Physical element to his game will marry well to Lemieux. I woul be willing to experiment with him on the PP as a front of net presence.

Jost: a capable 4th line centre who was a victim of Buffalo's depth imo. The fact he he was sent down should make him a value signing. Stocky, but not overly physical. Ability to add a little offense to the fourth line.

Coughlan: always like him. Cheap 7th D.

Smith: NHL experience who should clear waivers as a call up option.

Side notes:

Fast: buying him put was a tough decision, but at this stage of his career, what he brings to the table, I might say, doesn't add up to the contract. Necessary to be cap compliant.

Kotkamniemi: oh boy. He is only 23, and I still think there is something there. 22-23 it seemed he found his groove, this season a train wreck. Hoping moving him.to the wing jump starts something. But if he can be what I think he can be (that being a 60 point two way centre) that contract isn't bad at he stays. Definitely a make or break season for him as a Cane. Needs to find traction. Possible TDL trade chip..... possible......


Necas: Dundon is shall we say cheap. So I can see a long term deal being nickle and dimed. Another contract that will not exceed Svechnikov. And, I don't see him being quite as effective either. Settled at $7 million with term.

Overall: hard not to put the Canes in the Cup conversations again. Admittedly, the blueline does take a step back, and the cost of adding goal scoring, which has been an issue in the playoffs over the last couple seasons.