Carolina Hurricanes Secure Martin Necas with $13 Million Deal
In a significant move, the Carolina Hurricanes have solidified their roster by securing forward Martin Necas with a two-year, $13 million contract. This new deal ensures that Necas, a 25-year-old native of Czechia, will remain with the Hurricanes through the 2025-26 season. The agreement comes after speculation about his future following Carolina's sixth consecutive playoff appearance.
Impressive Track Record
Necas, who was drafted in the first round by the Hurricanes in 2017, has consistently proven his value on the ice. Last season, he tallied 24 goals and 29 assists over 77 games, continuing to showcase his ability to make significant contributions during both regular season and postseason play. In the 2022-23 season, Necas had an outstanding performance, scoring 28 goals and providing 43 assists, leading the team with a total of 71 points in 82 regular-season games. His prowess was further highlighted in the playoffs, where he recorded four goals in 11 games.
Since the 2020-21 season, Necas has also demonstrated a knack for clutch moments, tying for the NHL lead with nine overtime goals. This factor alone makes him an indispensable asset for the Hurricanes as they aim to build on their postseason successes.
Management's Vision
Newly appointed General Manager Eric Tulsky, who took the reins after Don Waddell's departure to Columbus, expressed his enthusiasm about securing Necas for the coming seasons. “Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick,” Tulsky stated. He further added, “He will play a key role in the continued success of our franchise, and we're excited to have a multi-year contract done.”
Under Tulsky's leadership, the Hurricanes have already witnessed considerable changes, including the departures of key players Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce in free agency. The new GM’s focus appears to be on ensuring that core players like Necas remain integral parts of the team’s framework as they strive for deeper playoff runs.
Future Negotiations
Looking ahead, the Hurricanes are in discussions to finalize a deal with 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis. Jarvis, who has netted 33 goals and 13 playoff goals over his first three seasons, represents another critical piece of the puzzle for Carolina as they look to maintain and enhance their competitive edge in the league.
The Hurricanes faced a disappointing end to their previous playoff campaign, falling to the New York Rangers in the second round. However, with talents like Necas secured and ongoing negotiations with emerging stars like Jarvis, the team is positioning itself to be a formidable contender in the upcoming seasons.
Conclusion
The signing of Martin Necas to a two-year, $13 million contract is a strategic move by the Carolina Hurricanes' management, aiming to sustain their competitive stature. With Necas's proven track record and his potential for future contributions, this deal paves the way for what the Hurricanes hope will be a successful and enduring tenure for the Czech forward. As the franchise continues to navigate free agency and secure key players, fans can look forward to exciting prospects and competitive play in the seasons to come.