One Team Interested In Hurricanes' Kotkaniemi, But Not First Choice

The Carolina Hurricanes are openly trying to trade Jesperi Kotkaniemi. They don't need the cap space as they are in a unique position where they are contenders and have plenty, but the team would just like to finally end the trial of the younger forward.

Kotkaniemi hasn't played very much, and when he does, it's fourth-line minutes, and deservingly so for what he's done. As just 25 years old, there is still more to give and more potential there, but he has to get a different opportunity and a change of scenery. I don't believe it matters how much the Hurricanes get back for Kotkaniemi at this point. He would be in a better position to succeed if that was the case.

The Hurricanes have only gotten Kotkaniemi into 29 games this season. He has two goals, seven points, and averages 11:13 of ice time per game. He doesn't play on either special teams, but his xGF% and Corsi% are strong, more than likely a result of playing on the Hurricanes in their system. It is a system that benefits those who commit, and it doesn't seem like Kotkaniemi is fit for the game the Hurricanes play. There is some interest out there, and one team specifically named is the Minnesota Wild.

David Pagnotta said, "The Minnesota Wild have some interest in Jesperi Kotkaniemi, but he isn't their first choice." There have been rumors that the Wild would be willing to trade someone like Jesper Wallstedt to upgrade an elite or very good talent up front. That wouldn't be a conversation had with the Hurricanes involving Kotkaniemi though.

Up front, the Wild have injuries to Joel Eriksson Ek, Matt Boldy, and Marcus Johansson. They definitely need help right now and their center depth isn't great, but the way Kotkaniemi has played this season, it doesn't feel like an upgrade. If he can find the form he had years ago or even part of what he had last season, it would add some offense that the Wild have struggled with, but his cap hit is also far too high. We'll have to wait and see if the Wild can get any other more preferable deal done or if they'll settle for Kotkaniemi.