The Carolina Hurricanes have made a significant move by securing forward Martin Necas with a two-year, $13 million contract. This extension will keep the talented forward in Raleigh through the 2025-26 season, providing much-needed stability to the team's offensive lines.
A Steady Rise in Carolina
Martin Necas, a 25-year-old native of Czechia, was drafted in the first round of the 2017 NHL Draft. Since then, the forward has continuously demonstrated his worth on the ice, evolving into a cornerstone of the Hurricanes' attack. Last season, Necas recorded 24 goals and 29 assists over 77 games. However, it was his performance in the 2022-23 season that solidified his standing within the team—scoring 28 goals and 43 assists, Necas led the Hurricanes with a total of 71 points in 82 regular-season games. His playoff performance, where he added four goals in 11 games, further underscores his importance to the squad.
Management Endorsement
Hurricanes General Manager Eric Tulsky couldn't be more pleased with the deal. "Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick," Tulsky said. "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, who took over the GM role after Don Waddell's departure to Columbus, sees Necas as a critical element in their future plans, especially after losing key players like Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce in free agency. The forward's scoring prowess and ability to perform in crucial moments, evidenced by his nine overtime goals since the 2020-21 season (tying him for the NHL lead in that span), offer a beacon of consistency for a team that aims to make deeper playoff runs.
The Trade Rumors
There had been rampant speculation regarding Necas' future, spurred by trade discussions following Carolina's sixth consecutive playoff appearance. Despite these rumors, the Hurricanes' decision to secure him showcases their long-term commitment.
Future Prospects
While the Necas deal provides immediate relief and assurance, the Hurricanes are not resting on their laurels. The team is actively engaged in talks with 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis. Jarvis has shown promise with 33 goals and 13 playoff goals over his first three seasons. Securing him would further fortify the squad's offensive capabilities.
The Hurricanes are eager to bounce back from their recent second-round playoff exit at the hands of the New York Rangers. With Necas now firmly in the fold, and potential deals on the horizon, the team is positioning itself for sustained success.
As the Hurricanes prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on leveraging the skills and experience of their core players, with Necas at the forefront. Fans will be eager to see how this strategic move impacts the team's performance, not just in the regular season but as they aim for deeper playoff contention.