NHL Rumors: Hurricanes Forward Close To Signing Extension

According to Frank Seravalli, the Carolina Hurricanes and Jesperi Kotkaniemi are making progress with their extension talks. Both parties are aiming to finalize a long-term deal.

Kotkaniemi of course signed a $6.1 million offer sheet this past offseason with the Hurricanes, and the Montreal Canadiens decided not to match it. In 55 games this season with the Hurricanes, he has 11 goals, 11 assists, and a plus-1 rating. Overall, it's been a pretty solid season for him, and the 21-year-old is showing some signs of improvement.

Yet, it's important to note that Kotkaniemi will very likely be making less than $6.1 million on his next contract. They signed him to that high of a number to help their chances of Montreal not matching their offer. Yet, by making his contract a long-term one, they will be able to pay him less this time around.

It wouldn't be surprising to see the Hurricanes and Kotkaniemi agree to a new contract before the season is over. This is another storyline to pay close attention to.