Carolina Hurricanes Adding Jesperi Kotkaniemi In Trade Offers

The Carolina Hurricanes have been very active in trade discussions this week, and while they've been tied to landing a couple of big fish, one on defence, and one up front, it turns out they've been making trade offers which include disgruntled forward Jesperi Kotkaniemi.

Elliotte Friedman: Not a coincidence Jesperi Kotkaniemi was back in the Carolina lineup on Wednesday night, but not convinced the Canucks will do it. (This would not be a Pettersson deal.) - Sportsnet (3/5)

Kotkaniemi, 25, is signed for $4.8 million AAV through the 2030 season. When the Hurricanes signed him to the massive extension a couple of years ago, many felt there was a ton of risk, and it turns out things are not working out at all for either side.

Kotkaniemi has recorded just two goals and nine points, 37 games, and is averaging just over 10 minutes per game, and isn't seeing anytime on the power play. The Hurricanes are going to have to add a sweetener to the trade, or be willing to retain up to 25% of his contract in order to get teams to bite, considering how big of a ticket is left on the deal.

Look for the San Jose Sharks, Chicago Blackhawks, or Vancouver Canucks to make offers, but again, the Hurricanes are behind the eight ball here, as the production to dollar value isn't adding up right now.

The Hurricanes are going to make a huge splash on Friday, and while Kotkaniemi is likely being moved, the team's been linked to adding Justin Faulk and Vincent Trocheck before Friday afternoon.

Photo credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images