Carolina Hurricanes Secure Martin Necas with Lucrative Two-Year Deal
The Carolina Hurricanes have solidified their offensive arsenal by re-signing forward Martin Necas to a two-year, $13 million contract. This agreement ensures that Necas, a central figure in Carolina's offensive strategy, will remain with the team through the 2025-26 season.
At 25 years old, the Czech native has consistently demonstrated his value on the ice since being drafted in the first round back in 2017. Last season, Necas delivered an impressive performance, racking up 24 goals and 29 assists over 77 games. His prowess was particularly evident in the 2022-23 season, where he led the team with a total of 71 points, thanks to 28 goals and 43 assists over 82 regular-season games.
Necas has proven to be not just a regular-season asset but a postseason contributor as well. He scored four goals in 11 playoff games last season, bolstering the Hurricanes' playoff push. His knack for clutch performances is underscored by his nine overtime goals since the 2020-21 season, tying him for the NHL lead in that timeframe.
Despite his significant contributions, Necas's future with the team had been the subject of trade speculation following Carolina's sixth consecutive playoff appearance. However, the decision to re-sign him underscores the management's confidence in his abilities.
General Manager's Confidence
Eric Tulsky, who has taken over as the General Manager following Don Waddell’s departure to Columbus, expressed his enthusiasm for securing Necas’s talents for another two years. "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."
The deal comes at a crucial time for the Hurricanes. The team has seen the departure of key players like Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce in free agency, making Necas’s retention even more vital for maintaining offensive stability and depth.
Future Moves and Team Dynamics
While Necas’s deal secures a key component of the roster, the Hurricanes are continuing to look towards the future. The team is 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, indicating a bright future if his contract is extended.
The Hurricanes' efforts to bolster their lineup come after a disappointing end to the previous season, where they were ousted by the New York Rangers in the second round of the playoffs. The management's proactive approach in securing and negotiating key contracts reflects a determination to return stronger in the upcoming seasons.
As the Hurricanes prepare for another competitive season, the extension of Necas’s contract represents a commitment to their core players and a strategic move to ensure continued success. With Necas firmly in the fold, Tulsky and the Hurricanes' management can focus on further strengthening the team and aiming for deeper playoff runs.