NHL Rumors: Hurricanes Out On Top Center

The Carolina Hurricanes appear to be out on Bo Horvat, not because of the cap hit, but due to the asking price of a player in return being too high. The Vancouver Canucks appear to be wanting Martin Necas in return, according to Rick Dhaliwal. Necas is having a breakout season for the Hurricanes and a key member of the success they've had.

The Hurricanes' centre depth could definitely use an upgrade, but not at the cost of Necas who has had amazing chemistry with Andrei Svechnikov this season and who has a cap hit of just $3 million AAV for this season and next.

The Hurricanes just lost Max Pacioretty to injury once again which frees up $7 million, but the best bet is that they don't want to make a swap of one of their current young players in the NHL for Horvat. The Canucks would like to make a hockey trade so that they aren't set too far back by trading Horvat, but that may have to come from a different team.

There are other high-end players that will be available at the trade deadline for the Hurricanes to target that won't involve them dealing someone like Necas, and instead, move some draft picks or prospects. They are legit Stanley Cup contenders and will be bringing in a big name soon.


Photo credit: © James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports