Key Takeaways:
– Carolina Hurricanes conducted end-of-season media interactions on May 18 and May 19.
– Jake Guentzel, a prospective free agent, expressed his intent to extend his contract with the Hurricanes.
– NHL insider Elliotte Friedman shares insights about the Hurricanes’ dealings with prospective free agents in a recent episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast.
– The team might face challenges in re-contracting players such as Brett Pesce who initially rejected a $55 million offer.
– The Hurricanes remain optimistic about bringing back key players while keeping options open to acquire new players for the next season.
End-of-Season Media Sessions Disclose Potential Moves
The Carolina Hurricanes concluded their season with media availability sessions on May 18 and May 19. All players and coaches held discussions with reporters, offering glimpses into their future plans. Jake Guentzel, expressing interest in a contract extension with the Canes, sparked attention.
32 Thoughts podcast episode, released on May 17, featured NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, who highlighted the free-agent prospects and potential dealings of the Carolina Hurricanes. He opined the team might struggle to retain its players who have already declined offers, despite Guentzel’s willingess to extend his contract.
Challenges with Re-Signing Brett Pesce
Friedman cast light on the Hurricanes’ previous attempts to strike a deal with Brett Pesce. The player, originally drafted by Carolina, reportedly rejected a $55 million offer.
“I don’t know that it’s changed,” he said on the podcast, casting doubt on the player’s likely return to the team. Pesce’s father’s now-deleted social media post confirming his exit further corroborates Friedman’s information.
The Guentzel Factor
Guentzel’s openness about extending his contract showed the respect he has gained for the city of Raleigh and his team, the Canes. His aspiration to “win the Stanley Cup” might play a crucial role in his decision to stay.
“Hopefully, you can kind of get some stability and be able to sign here long-term,” Guentzel said.
The Brady Skjei Scenario
Friedman also discussed the team’s approach towards Brady Skjei, expressing that the Hurricanes had attempted creative deals to extend his contract ahead of free agency. With no consensus reached, the future of Skjei’s contract remains open-ended.
Engaging Flexibility for a Winning Strategy
Friedman’s discussion concluded with a bright outlook for the Hurricanes’ offseason. With a remarkable $28.13 million in cap space available, the Canes have no pressure to hurriedly sign contracts and can instead explore their options. Friedman suggested the team might wait for favorable opportunities and potential free agents, leveraging their flexibility advantage.
With a clear intent to retain their players and scope to acquire fresh talent, the Hurricanes are geared towards building a solid team for the upcoming season. The team’s offseason maneuvers and decision concerning key players like Guentzel and Pesce will likely play an instrumental role in shaping their future prospects.