The Carolina Hurricanes have made a significant move to strengthen their roster with the re-signing of forward Martin Necas to a two-year, $13 million deal. This new contract ensures that Necas will remain with the Hurricanes through the 2025-26 season, providing the team with consistent offensive prowess.
Martin Necas, a 25-year-old native of Czechia, has been a key player for the Hurricanes since being drafted in the first round in 2017. His recent performance underscores his value to the team. In the 2022-23 season, Necas led the Hurricanes with 71 points, comprising 28 goals and 43 assists over 82 regular-season games. Last season, he continued to be a formidable presence on the ice, delivering 24 goals and 29 assists in 77 games. His contributions were also vital in the playoffs, where he scored four goals in 11 postseason games.
Eric Tulsky, the General Manager of the Hurricanes, expressed his satisfaction with securing Necas for the coming seasons. "Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick," Tulsky remarked. "He will play a key role in the continued success of our franchise, and we're excited to have a multi-year contract done."
Despite Necas’ remarkable performances and his evident value to the Hurricanes, trade discussions regarding the forward had surfaced following the team’s sixth consecutive playoff appearance. However, by locking him into a new contract, the Hurricanes have reinforced their commitment to their core players as they aim to build on their recent successes.
The Hurricanes' offseason has been marked by significant personnel changes. The departure of former General Manager Don Waddell, who left for Columbus, ushered in a new era with Eric Tulsky taking the helm. However, Tulsky faced immediate challenges, including the loss of key players in free agency. Notable departures include Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce, who will no longer don the Hurricanes' jersey.
Amid these transitions, Carolina remains active in building and maintaining a competitive roster. The team is currently in negotiations for a deal with 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis. Jarvis has shown considerable promise in his first three seasons, scoring 33 goals and contributing significantly in the playoffs with 13 postseason goals. Integrating talented young players like Jarvis is part of the Hurricanes' strategy to sustain their competitive edge.
Necas’s knack for clutch performances is well-documented, with the forward having scored nine overtime goals since the 2020-21 season. This impressive feat ties him for the NHL lead in that span, further solidifying his reputation as a game-changing player.
As the Hurricanes prepare for the upcoming seasons, retaining a player of Necas's caliber bodes well for their aspirations. While the team was ousted by the New York Rangers in the second round of the playoffs last season, the foundation is set for future success. Necas’s continued presence will undoubtedly be integral to Carolina's quest for deeper postseason runs and potential championships.
With a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, the Carolina Hurricanes are poised to remain a formidable force in the NHL. The commitment to Martin Necas, exemplified by his new contract, underscores their dedication to maintaining a team capable of achieving great heights in the competitive landscape of professional hockey.