Toronto Maple Leafs Not Only Team in Contract Trouble

Toronto Maple Leafs Not the Only team in Contract Trouble

Carolina Hurricanes
The Carolina Hurricanes enter the upcoming season with just four forwards and three defensemen signed past this year (credit: capfriendly.com).

The biggest concern is that their superstar forward Sebastian Aho who enters the final season of his five-year deal which leads him to unrestricted free agency.

Through the first four seasons, the Finnish sniper has averaged 40-goals through an 82-game pace.  When you add that scoring output, along with receiving consideration for the Selke Trophy in the last three season, the Hurricanes are going to be looking at $10 Million a year if they want to lock him in.

The Hurricanes may be seeing the end of the powerhouse defense core

The ‘Canes are also at risk of losing two of their top defenseman, as Brett Pesce and Brady Skjei are both entering the final year of their contracts.

Each defenseman averaged around 22:00 minutes a night and are still in their 20s when a new contract kicks in.  These two defenders are part of the reason Carolina has one of, if not the best defensive core in the league.  Each of these defenseman are likely looking in the $8 Million range. (stats nhl.com).

If you thought that is a lot to be concerned about, Tuevo Teräväinen is also an unrestricted free agent and the team may have to let this native of Finland walk.  The playmaking forward is coming off a down season after four 60-point seasons, but is likely to bounce back.  If Carolina wants to bring him back, they may be looking in the $6 Million range.

The final concern will be restricted free agent Martin Nečas who is coming off a break out season that saw him collect 28-goals and 71-points after passing his previous career best of 41-points.

If the former 12th overall selection improves off of last year, the Hurricanes can be in a lot of trouble with this contract.  Carolina may be implied to get his extension signed this summer.