Jesperi Kotkaniemi's big contract could open a nice opportunity for Kent Hughes and the Habs
As reported earlier, the Hurricanes are currently to finalize an eight-year deal with former Montreal Canadiens center Jesperi Kotkaniemi.
This agreement, which will bring about 4.82M to KK for the next eight years, could be a good one for the Canes if the number 82 continues to develop.
With Sebastian Aho and Kotkaniemi signed long-term, in addition to Jordan Staal, who is the captain and who has one year left on his contract after this season, that leaves no room in the center for Vincent Trocheck, who will be free agent (unrestricted) at the end of this campaign.
The 28-year-old forward will therefore complete a six-year contract worth $4.75 million per season. With very respectable stats, including 228 points in 303 games during that span, as well as being good two-way player, let's bet he'll be asking for a higher salary this summer, which may have helped in the Canes' decision to sign KK in the very long term.
Stéphane Waite rightly said, on RDS earlier this week, that Trocheck would be a very good acquisition for the Habs. It remains to be seen whether Kent Hughes will be able to lure him here while giving him the fair value. One thing is certain, with the new contract awarded to KK, Trocheck will be available very soon.
An excellent additional option in the center and a beautiful opportunity that opens for the Habs GM.
