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Report: Hurricanes Looking to Trade Top Defenseman at High Price

Published August 26, 2023 at 1:47 PM
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While the Hurricanes might've missed out on the Erik Karlsson sweepstakes, they still have an impressive blue line.

Could they opt for a reshuffle, though? Maybe to free up some cap space or to get a bit more offense?

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Canes to Trade Defenseman?




Cory Lavalette from The Athletic talked about that possibility.

"The Hurricanes don't need to panic about this. They're under the salary cap ceiling and can wait for teams until the right deal comes along. It wouldn't be ideal to have four defensemen playing out the final year of their contracts, but Carolina doesn't need to dump someone just for the sake of dumping."

The Canes could decide to keep them all, but having four defenders entering the last year of their contracts isn't optimal, as Lavalette highlights.

Could we see a major move soon?

Skjei or Pesce to be Traded?



If any changes do occur in the defense department, all eyes are on Brady Skjei and Brett Pesce.

"If the Hurricanes do trade one of their defensemen, Pesce and Skjei are the ones most likely to be moved. There are enough good blueliners to still have one of the best defense corps in the league."

The value these players bring is undeniable. It's hard to think the Hurricanes will let either of them go without securing at least a first-round pick in return.

"I imagine Waddell and the front office would expect at least a first-round pick in return."


With Pesce scored 30 points from 82 games last season and Skjei amassing 38 points in 81 games, the duo's contributions speak for themselves.

They can be a valuable addition to any team that's looking for a deep playoff run.


Who do you think will be traded?

As seen on House of Hockey - REPORT: Hurricanes' Ask for Top Defenseman is Now Known
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August 26   |   24 answers
Report: Hurricanes Looking to Trade Top Defenseman at High Price

Who do you think will be traded?

Skjei28.3 %
Pesce937.5 %
Both625 %
None729.2 %
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