The Carolina Hurricanes have solidified their roster for the next few seasons with the signing of forward Martin Necas to a two-year, $13 million contract. This new deal will keep the Czech native with the Hurricanes through the 2025-26 season, ensuring the team's loyal fans that one of their key offensive weapons will remain in Carolina's colors for a while longer.
A Rising Star
Martin Necas, a 25-year-old from Czechia, has been an integral part of the team since his first-round selection in the 2017 NHL Draft. Necas has demonstrated a consistent upward trajectory in his performance. Last season, he recorded 24 goals and 29 assists over 77 games, further validating his importance to the Hurricanes' offense.
The 2022-23 season was a standout year for Necas. He netted 28 goals and added 43 assists, leading the team with a total of 71 points in 82 regular-season games. His performance in the postseason was also notable, contributing four goals in 11 games. His knack for scoring when it matters most is underscored by his nine overtime goals since the 2020-21 season, a tally that ties him for the NHL lead over that span.
Securing the Future
General Manager Eric Tulsky expressed his enthusiasm about the new contract, highlighting Necas' skillset and importance to the team. "Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick," Tulsky stated. "He will play a key role in the continued success of our franchise, and we're excited to have a multi-year contract done."
Tulsky's tenure as GM has already seen significant activity, following the departure of previous GM Don Waddell to Columbus. The Hurricanes have faced the exit of notable players like Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce in free agency. However, securing Necas helps to stabilize the roster amid these changes.
Trade Discussions and Playoff Performances
Necas' name had been circulating in trade rumors, especially following Carolina's sixth consecutive playoff appearance. Despite these discussions, the Hurricanes have decided to double down on Necas, making him a central figure in their plans moving forward.
While the Hurricanes were eliminated by the New York Rangers in the second round last season, the drive and contributions of players like Necas have been pivotal in their consistent playoff qualifications.
Eyeing Further Deals
Carolina is also in negotiations to finalize a deal with another promising talent, 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis. Jarvis has demonstrated his potential with 33 career goals, including 13 in the playoffs, over his first three seasons. The impending deal with Jarvis indicates Carolina's strategic focus on nurturing and maintaining a core of young, skilled forwards.
As the Hurricanes prepare for the upcoming seasons, the blend of solid leadership from Tulsky, the retention of key players like Necas, and potential new contracts with rising stars like Jarvis, all point towards a promising future for the franchise.
By keeping their talented roster intact and making strategic moves in the market, Carolina aims to not only maintain their playoff streak but push further in the quest for NHL supremacy.