Hurricanes Expected To Land Free Agent Center

The Carolina Hurricanes aren't weak up the middle, but they aren't great either. After Sebastian Aho, there are mixed feelings about how the rest of the centers can perform. Jordan Staal continues to get older even though he is a solid third line center, but Logan Stankoven is pretty inexperienced and hasn't played much center in the NHL and Jesperi Kotkaniemi keeps finding himself on either the second line or fourth line.

According to David Pagnotta's sources, "there is an expectation free agent forward Michael McLeod will be joining the Hurricanes this season."

McLeod is one of the five players who were found not guilty and can return to the NHL this season. He was a strong third line center for the New Jersey Devils, but they have since readjusted their bottom-6. McLeod is likely looking for a fresh start as well.

The Hurricanes are already very deep at forward, so the likely outcome is that someone is going to be traded when McLeod is eventually brought in. I have to think that is Kotkaniemi as there are a couple of teams that could use a center option and have money to spare to get a deal like that done. He also won't cost too much.

McLeod last played in the NHL in 2023-24 for 45 games where he scored 10 goals and 19 points. He was well on his way to putting up career highs. He hits and plays hard like Carolina would like their players to and is also excellent on faceoffs. Maybe he gets a look at second line center on the Hurricanes if and when they sign him. The team has options and they seem to be prepared for any injuries that may come through the season and playoffs.