Report: Bunting on the Block in Carolina

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Pat Quinn
December 31, 2023 (5:45 PM)

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According to reports, when the Carolina Hurricanes were in search of a goaltender they were using all avenues available.

Bunting was on the block early when the Hurricanes were struggling

According to Elliotte Friedman, newly signed forward Michael Bunting was the focal point as the Hurricanes were looking for goaltending help early in the season. Bunting may still be on the block as Friendman stated that he isn't sure if Bunting is still on the block but he also has not ruled out of a move will or will not happen.

This report is obviously from earlier in the season as the Hurricanes have appeared to right the ship and starting goalie Frederick Andersen is due back sooner than later.

Bunting's year so far with the hurricanes

Bunting has performed well so far with the Carolina Hurricanes, but probably not as good as the team hoped when they signed him to the UFA contract. He has 25 points in 36 games so far, a point per game pace of 0.69. That pace is slightly better than his final year with the Leafs where he had a 0.60, but his first year with the Leafs his point per game pace was 0.80.

He has not been up to that pace, but he also has been shuffled around the line up quite a bit. With Andrei Svechnikov back, Bunting's role on the powerplay has been reduced so the points will not come so easily.

With Teravainen in the last year of his deal, there should be an increased role for Bunting next season.