The Carolina Hurricanes have solidified their forward lineup by securing Martin Necas with a two-year, $13 million contract. This commitment from the Hurricanes guarantees that the Czech native will be donning the team's colors through the 2025-26 season.
Martin Necas, now 25, was originally drafted in the first round back in 2017. Since then, he has become a vital component of the Hurricanes' offensive strategy. Last season, Necas registered an impressive 24 goals and 29 assists over 77 games. This built on his standout performance in the 2022-23 season, where he topped the team’s scoring charts with 28 goals and 43 assists, amassing a total of 71 points in 82 regular-season games. His knack for scoring crucial goals, including four in their recent postseason run, has made him a pivotal player.
The new contract comes on the heels of Carolina's sixth consecutive playoff appearance, during which Necas played a key role. Despite trade rumors circulating around him this offseason, the Hurricanes have opted to invest in Necas' future with the team. General Manager Eric Tulsky expressed his excitement about the deal, stating, "Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick. He will play a key role in the continued success of our franchise, and we're excited to have a multi-year contract done."
Team Evolution Under New Leadership
Tulsky, who assumed the role of GM following Don Waddell's departure for Columbus, faces a period of substantial transition. The Hurricanes have seen the exit of key players Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce in free agency. As Tulsky navigates these changes, he is also working on securing a deal with 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis. Jarvis has shown promising potential, tallying 33 goals and 13 playoff goals over his first three seasons in the league.
Post-Season Performance and Future Prospects
The Hurricanes are coming off a season that ended with their elimination by the New York Rangers in the second round of the playoffs. Despite the disappointing outcome, the postseason provided Necas another platform to demonstrate his clutch performance, scoring four goals in 11 games. Known for his knack in overtime, Necas has netted nine overtime goals since the 2020-21 season, tying him for the NHL lead in that span.
With Necas secured, the focus now shifts to the future. Carolina's ability to retain and build around their young talent is crucial for their long-term aspirations. As they negotiate with Jarvis and look to fill the gaps left by free agents, the Hurricanes are positioning themselves for sustained success.
Martin Necas’ new contract signifies not just a reward for his performances, but also an investment in the Hurricanes' ambitions. This deal reflects the team's commitment to remaining competitive while navigating the challenges of player turnover and market dynamics. As the new NHL season approaches, all eyes will be on how these strategic decisions play out on the ice.