Carolina searching still for top-six forward…
Chris Nichols of Nichols On Hockey: Darren Dreger speculates again about what Carolina may do to acquire a top-six forward. Carolina placing a premium on making the playoffs means there is work to be done.
“But I don’t get the sense that Don Waddell or the Carolina Hurricanes are done. They still have pieces on their back end. Maybe Brett Pesce, Dougie Hamilton’s name has surfaced on occasion as speculation, there are other defensemen that they could use. They still are in the market for another top-six forward.
Carolina expects to be a team to watch in the coming weeks.
NHL Trade Deadline: Trade Or No Trade
Rory Boylen of Sportsnet: A buyers’ market has invaded the NHL Trade Deadline. With so many names out there, it becomes difficult to assess some of the assets. There are a few players to take a look at as far as what their fates may be.
Dougie Hamilton enters the NHL trade deadline fray because of Carolina’s top-six forward need. The Hurricanes score less than they should on a consistent basis and their power play is a sore spot. Hamilton fetching a better return is the only reason he is on here.
Wayne Simmonds plays as a top-six forward who could be a final piece for contending teams. His $3.975 million salary on an expiring contract would be easy to absorb. His power play abilities fulfill a need along with his physical nature (26th in hits the last three seasons). Micheal Ferland presents as a cheaper solution from Carolina if he hits the market.
Mark Stone and Matt Duchene trades are questionable currently. Deals offered have been substantial so the wait begins. Ryan Dzingel‘s value rises with every day and his $1.8 million salary is attractive to contending teams.
Alex Pietrangelo becomes almost a forgotten wildcard since the emergence of Jake Muzzin trade rumors. Unlike Muzzin, Pietrangelo has another year on his deal with impacts his trade status some. As far as NHL trades go, the return might have to be modified considering his $6.5 million salary. Vladimir Tarasenko would be a huge acquisition but he makes $7.5 million for four more seasons.
A player like Kevin Hayes is on an expiring contract and can play wing or center if need be. Hayes getting moved would surprise few.
