Martin Necas’s desire for a fresh start has sent shockwaves across the NHL, as he seeks to leave the Carolina Hurricanes this offseason. Numerous teams have expressed interest in the talented forward, creating a hotbed of trade speculation.
TSN’s Pierre LeBrun reports that the Hurricanes have narrowed their focus to “5 to 7 teams” offering the most appealing trade scenarios. However, the team’s asking price for Necas, who has consistently netted over 20 goals in the past two seasons, remains high.
Interim GM Eric Tulsky has maintained a firm stance on the valuation of Necas, stating a willingness to retain the player if the team’s demands aren’t met. This stance could create a tense atmosphere, especially given Necas and his father’s public desire for a change of scenery.
Among the interested parties, the Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Calgary Flames, Montreal Canadiens, and Winnipeg Jets are considered potential destinations. However, it’s unclear if these teams are among the final contenders being considered by the Hurricanes.
An intriguing subplot involves the differing situations of the rival Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins. The Canadiens, armed with an impressive 24 draft picks over the next two years, possess considerable leverage in trade discussions. Conversely, the Bruins appear to lack the assets necessary to meet the Hurricanes’ demands.
The Detroit Red Wings, another team seeking to bolster their offense, particularly with the potential loss of Patrick Kane, have also inquired about Necas.
As the offseason progresses, the Necas situation will be a focal point, with the potential to significantly impact multiple teams across the league.