Hurricanes Pull Surprise By Signing First-Round Pick Early

 

They made him their first-round pick in 2023, selecting him with the 30th overall pick. It's taken less than a year, and Bradly Nadeau has already signed on the dotted line with the Carolina Hurricanes, agreeing to his entry-level contract.

Our Maine man 👏

The #Canes have signed 2023 first-round selection, Bradly Nadeau, to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Details » https://t.co/fR7rPBbSAW pic.twitter.com/G3GRZWzyy4

— x - Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) April 7, 2024

It's a three-year ELC for Nadeau, the 5'10", 160-pound winger out of University of Maine, and Hobey Baker nominee. As noted by Steve Ellis of Daily Faceoff, being an undersized forward, some thought it may take at least a couple of years of college play before he signed his first pro deal. But Carolina made it official today. 

And now it's taken him just a couple of hours before earning his first ovation from Hurricanes fans, as he attended Sunday's game, in the press box. 

Bradly Nadeau, who signed his ELC under an hour ago, is shown in-house on the big board.

He plays it cool, but you can see him crack a smile. 😆👏 pic.twitter.com/AW9CImAGzY

— Walt Ruff (@WaltRuff) April 7, 2024

Nadeau had 19 goals and 27 assists for 46 points in 37 games this season. 

“Bradly is a dynamic forward with a powerful shot,” Hurricanes GM Don Waddell said Sunday. “He had a very impressive season at Maine, and we’re excited to see his development continue in professional hockey.”

Photo: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports