In a strategic move that promises to bolster their offensive lineup, the Carolina Hurricanes have inked a critical two-year, $13 million deal with forward Martin Necas. The contract ensures that the talented 25-year-old will remain with the Hurricanes through the 2025-26 season, fortifying the team's core as they aim to build on their recent successes.
Martin Necas, a highly skilled forward from Czechia, has proven to be an invaluable asset for the Hurricanes since being drafted in the first round in 2017. His performance last season was particularly noteworthy, as he notched 24 goals and 29 assists over 77 games. However, it was his standout 2022-23 season that truly highlighted his prowess. Necas led the team with an impressive 71 points, courtesy of 28 goals and 43 assists, in 82 regular-season games. His ability to come through in clutch moments is evident from his nine overtime goals since the 2020-21 season, tying for the NHL lead in that span.
Despite this, Necas' future with the Hurricanes seemed uncertain, as he had been at the center of trade discussions following Carolina's sixth consecutive playoff appearance. The Hurricanes, under the new management of General Manager Eric Tulsky, have been navigating a period of transition. Tulsky, who stepped into the GM role after Don Waddell departed for Columbus, acknowledged the significance of retaining Necas.
"Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick," said Tulsky. "He will play a key role in the continued success of our franchise, and we're excited to have a multi-year contract done."
The signing of Necas comes at a crucial time for the Hurricanes, who have seen several key players exit in free agency, including Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce. Their departure has left noticeable gaps in the roster, necessitating astute acquisitions and strategic re-signings to maintain the team’s competitive edge.
Carolina’s commitment to securing young talent is further evidenced by their ongoing negotiations with 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis. Jarvis has demonstrated his potential with 33 goals and an impressive 13 playoff goals over his first three seasons. Landing a deal with Jarvis would reinforce the Hurricanes’ ambition to sustain their playoff relevance while nurturing emerging talent.
The Hurricanes' postseason journey last year concluded in the second round with a disappointing exit at the hands of the New York Rangers. Nonetheless, the team’s consistent presence in the playoffs underscores their resilience and potential. The retention of players like Necas is central to their strategy of converting regular-season success into deeper playoff runs.
Necas’ contributions extend beyond his regular-season stats. In the playoffs, he has shown that he can elevate his game when it matters most, as evidenced by his four goals in 11 postseason games last year. His multi-dimensional play and knack for clutch performances are precisely what the Hurricanes need to break past their playoff barriers.
With Eric Tulsky at the helm, the franchise is at a pivotal juncture. Tulsky's approach to team-building involves not just acquiring top talent but ensuring that the team’s nucleus remains intact and productive. His efforts in securing Necas are a testament to this philosophy.
Looking forward, the Hurricanes' fans can expect Necas to continue to deliver high-octane performances that can change the course of any game. As the General Manager pointed out, “Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick.” It is this very capability that makes Necas so indispensable to Carolina’s lineup.
As the Hurricanes prepare for the new season, their focus will be on integrating new acquisitions, finalizing key negotiations, and leveraging the exceptional skills of players like Martin Necas. With a blend of seasoned stalwarts and rising stars, Carolina remains poised to be a formidable contender in the NHL landscape.