Hurricanes Rumors: Carolina To Trade Jesperi Kotkaniemi?

The Carolina Hurricanes are at an interesting juncture with Jesperi Kotkaniemi's tenure, contemplating a move to alleviate impending salary cap pressures.

Despite his potential, his current contract doesn't fully align with his on-ice contributions, prompting discussions about his future. With key players like Martin Necas, Seth Jarvis, Brett Pesce, and Brady Skjei in line for extensions, the Hurricanes must navigate tough decisions to maintain their roster's long-term viability, as noted by Rob Ellis.

Kotkaniemi is in the second year of an 8-year, $38.5M deal, carrying an AAV of $4.8M. Also important to note is that he holds a modified no-trade clause in his contract for the last five years of the deal, which will kick in after next season.

After a career-best season last year and scoring 13 points in his first 13 games this season, the 23-year-old has managed just 11 goals and 25 points while playing in all 74 games this season with the Hurricanes.

Jesperi Kotkaniemi scores his 6th goal of the season 1:20 into the game. He now has 13 points in 13 games + 1 period.

The kid is for real.
pic.twitter.com/qpnI2SBZLs

— Jason Gold (@JayGold85) November 11, 2023

Exploring trade options for Kotkaniemi emerges as a reasonable move for Carolina to address their cap concerns while potentially securing assets for the future.

Kotkaniemi was the third overall pick in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft by the Montreal Canadiens.

As mentioned, the 6-foot-2 forward had the best season of his six-year career last season, putting up 18 goals and 43 total points over 82 games played with Carolina.

Stefan Noesen finds Jesperi Kotkaniemi for a goal as the power play expires, 1-0 Hurricanes!#CauseChaos pic.twitter.com/q74rBAERJr

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) October 22, 2023

His skill set and young age could make him an attractive acquisition for teams seeking center depth, particularly those with cap space to spare.

Over his six-year career, Kotkaniemi has yet to live up to his expected potential, amassing 63 goals and 96 assists for 159 points across 393 games played. Photo Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports