NHL Trade Rumors: Insider speculates snag in talks of $6M Martin Necas move to contenders like Bruins, Blackhawks
Martin Necas' future with the Carolina Hurricanes is up in the air. While he hasn't said publicly that he wants to leave Carolina, reports indicate that the 25-year-old forward has privately expressed a desire to part ways with the team.
Necas has been a key player for the Hurricanes in driving their offense. Trade rumors have subsequently begun circulating around him, possibly setting the stage for one of the most significant trades this offseason.
TSN hockey insider Pierre LeBrun recently said on "Insider Trading" that there have been talks about the center being a target of several teams, including contenders. However, a potential snag in discussions is that the Hurricanes haven't received an offer that meets their desired price just yet.
LeBrun mentioned teams like the Winnipeg Jets, Chicago Blackhawks, Boston Bruins and Montreal Canadiens have shown interest in Necas, but no deal has been finalized at the price the Hurricanes are looking for:
“I’m told 5-7 teams invite intriguing possibilities for the Hurricanes, but no one has gone up to the price they’d like to see. Winnipeg.. Chicago, Boston, Montreal among the teams that have inquired," via NHL Watcher on X/Twitter.
According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Hurricanes have initiated talks with multiple teams regarding the Czech international. Friedman added that teams might not have what Carolina is seeking and could consider participating in a three-team deal to make it happen.
Martin Necas is aiming for a substantial salary increase
Necas signed a two-year, $6,000,000 contract with the Hurricanes in 2022, making him a pending restricted free agent. After amassing 53 points through 24 goals and 29 assists this past regular season, Necas is reportedly aiming for a substantial salary increase from his $3 million salary cap.
The Hurricanes face a challenging task ahead in getting a beneficial deal for him. The aim is to acquire assets that will assist the team in the upcoming season and beyond. Currently, all the speculation suggests that Necas is up for grabs in trade talks.
Necas was drafted No. 12 by the Hurricanes in the 2017 NHL draft. He's been with the organization for the last seven years. During that time, he has accumulated 243 points through 97 goals and 146 assists.
In the playoffs, he notched up nine points through four goals and five assists in 11 games. Overall, he's racked up 30 points through 11 goals and 19 assists in 59 career playoff games. The Hurricanes were eliminated by the New York Rangers in the second round of the playoffs this postseason.