The Carolina Hurricanes have made a significant move to ensure stability and scoring prowess by signing forward Martin Necas to a two-year, $13 million contract. This new deal secures Necas's place with the team through the 2025-26 season.
Key Player Retention
Martin Necas, a 25-year-old native of Czechia, has been a critical component of the Hurricanes' attack. Drafted in the first round in 2017, Necas has shown consistent growth and impressive performance on the ice. Last season, he recorded 24 goals and 29 assists over 77 games. During the 2022-23 season, he led the team with a remarkable 71 points, scoring 28 goals and 43 assists in 82 regular-season games.
General Manager Eric Tulsky praised Necas for his immense skill and scoring capabilities. "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."
Playoff Performance and Trade Speculations
Necas has also proved his worth in the postseason, with four goals in 11 games recently. Despite some trade discussions following Carolina's sixth consecutive playoff appearance, the decision to secure Necas's services for the next two years underscores the team's commitment to keeping its offensive core intact. Necas's knack for clutch performances is highlighted by his nine overtime goals since the 2020-21 season, tying him for the NHL lead in that category over this span.
Leadership and Management Changes
Eric Tulsky, who took over as General Manager after Don Waddell departed for Columbus, faces the challenge of maintaining the team's competitive edge following the exits of key players Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce in free agency. Keeping Necas was a critical step in that direction, ensuring that the Hurricanes retain their offensive flair and depth.
Future Prospects
Additionally, the Hurricanes are in talks to strike a deal with 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis. Jarvis has been a promising talent, scoring 33 goals and netting 13 playoff goals in his first three seasons. His potential extension would further solidify the team's forward line, creating a talented and youthful nucleus for the Hurricanes in the coming years.
Despite their consistent playoff appearances, the Hurricanes were recently ousted by the New York Rangers in the second round. Bringing back and securing the core players like Necas will be vital as they aim to push deeper into the postseason.
Overall, Martin Necas's new contract is a testament to the Hurricanes' strategic planning and commitment to building a team capable of sustained success. Tulsky's moves indicate a clear vision for the future, balancing the nuances of team retention and new talent acquisition.