REPORT: Hurricanes' Ask for Top Defenseman is Now Known
The Hurricanes might have lost the Erik Karlsson derby, but they can still rely on a solid defensive unit for next season.
They could even decide to part ways with one of them to create cap space or add offensive power to their roster.
Hurricanes to Trade Defenseman?
Cory Lavalette of The Athletic explored the idea in a recent article.
"The Hurricanes don't need to panic about this. They're under the salary cap ceiling and can wait for teams until the right deal comes along. It wouldn't be ideal to have four defensemen playing out the final year of their contracts, but Carolina doesn't need to dump someone just for the sake of dumping."
The Canes could decide to keep all their players, but as Lavalette says, it's not ideal to have four defensemen in their final contract year.
Two candidates are likely to go if a trade happens.
Pesce or Skjei?
If Carolina trades a defenseman, Brady Skjei and Brett Pesce are the most likely candidates.
"If the Hurricanes do trade one of their defensemen, Pesce and Skjei are the ones most likely to be moved. There are enough good blueliners to still have one of the best defense corps in the league."
They could get a nice return for them. We can't imagine either one of them leaving for less than a first-round pick.
"I imagine Waddell and the front office would expect at least a first-round pick in return."
Pesce, 28, scored 30 points in 82 games last season, and Skjei, 29, got 38 in 81 games.
What do you think will happen?
As seen on The Hockey Writers - NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs, Oilers, Hurricanes
| POLL | ||
What do you think will happen in Carolina? | ||
| Pesce will be traded | 4 | 18.2 % |
| Skjei will be traded | 6 | 27.3 % |
| Both will be traded | 6 | 27.3 % |
| None will be traded | 6 | 27.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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