Carolina Hurricanes GM Reveals "Top, Top Priority"

The Carolina Hurricanes' general manager Don Waddell has revealed his "top, top priority": re-signing center Sebastian Aho.

Waddell is fully committed to securing Aho's long-term contract extension and has wasted no time in initiating talks with his agent.

FUTURE CAPTAIN SEBASTIAN AHO CONFIRMED pic.twitter.com/CKaLTm9v89

— emilia! (@sepesfish) May 31, 2023

There appears to be no bitterness or animosity between the team and Aho regarding the offer sheet incident from the Montreal Canadiens, as both parties seem eager to continue their partnership.

The Hurricanes' GM is determined to keep Aho in the fold and is working towards a contract with an average annual value under $9.5 million, demonstrating their strong desire to maintain the team's roster integrity for another potential run at the Cup.

Sebastian Aho - 3/18/23 - hat trick goal, OT winner pic.twitter.com/D0Nr8rleUu

— y - bailee (@teubastian) June 1, 2023

The 25-year-old's production dipped slightly this past season, but he still racked up 36 goals and 67 points across 75 games, compared to the 37 goals and 81 points over 79 games that he had in 2021-22.

Ever since being drafted 35th overall by the Hurricanes in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Aho has been phenomenal, scoring a total of 218 goals and 250 assists for 468 points over 520 games and seven seasons.

He's a core piece and the Hurricanes will do everything they can to keep him around for the long haul.
Photo Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports