The Carolina Hurricanes have bolstered their forward lines by securing Martin Necas with a lucrative two-year, $13 million contract. This deal, locking in the Czech native through the 2025-26 season, comes as a strategic move for the Hurricanes as they navigate an offseason filled with notable changes and challenges.
A Key Player for the Hurricanes
Necas, now 25, has been a crucial part of the Hurricanes' offense since being drafted in the first round back in 2017. His recent performance has solidified his value to the team. Over the last season, Necas tallied 24 goals and 29 assists in 77 games, showcasing his consistent scoring ability. The previous season, he was even more impressive, netting 28 goals and providing 43 assists to lead the team with 71 points over 82 regular-season games.
In postseason play, Necas continued to be a significant contributor, scoring four goals in 11 games. Despite the Hurricanes' early exit at the hands of the New York Rangers in the second round, Necas's performance underscored his importance to Carolina's roster.
Trade Speculations and Contract Renewals
While Necas was at the center of trade discussions following Carolina's sixth consecutive playoff appearance, the decision to retain him reflects the Hurricanes' commitment to maintaining a competitive edge. General Manager Eric Tulsky, who took on the role after Don Waddell moved to Columbus, emphasized Necas's role in the team's future.
"Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick," said Tulsky. "He will play a key role in the continued success of our franchise, and we're excited to have a multi-year contract done."
Team Changes and Future Prospects
The Hurricanes' offseason has been marked by the departures of key players such as Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce. These exits represent significant losses for the team, but the Hurricanes are actively working to rebuild their roster.
One of the focal points in these efforts is securing a deal with 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis. Jarvis, who has already netted 33 goals and 13 playoff goals in his first three seasons, represents a promising prospect for the Hurricanes' future.
Necas's Unique Contributions
Necas's abilities on the ice are not limited to regular-season play. Since the 2020-21 season, he has recorded nine overtime goals, tying him for the NHL lead in that span. This knack for clutch performances further cements his reputation as a critical player for the Hurricanes.
As the Hurricanes move forward, retaining Necas sends a clear message about the team's dedication to remaining competitive in the highly contentious NHL landscape. With a blend of proven talent and emerging prospects, the Hurricanes look poised to navigate the challenges ahead and continue their pursuit of success in the seasons to come.