The Carolina Hurricanes have made a significant move by securing forward Martin Necas with a two-year, $13 million contract, ensuring the talented winger remains with the team through the 2025-26 season. This agreement adds stability to the Hurricanes' roster as they aim to build on recent successes and overcome postseason disappointments.
Martin Necas, a 25-year-old native of Czechia, has been a standout performer since being drafted in the first round in 2017. His offensive prowess was on full display last season, where he netted 24 goals and provided 29 assists over 77 games. In the 2022-23 season, Necas took his game to another level, leading the team with 28 goals and 43 assists for a total of 71 points in 82 regular-season games. His ability to deliver in crucial moments was further highlighted by his four goals in 11 postseason games.
“Martin is an immensely skilled player who provides a scoring threat whenever the puck is on his stick,” stated Hurricanes General Manager Eric Tulsky. “He will play a key role in the continued success of our franchise, and we're excited to have a multi-year contract done.” Tulsky, who took over as GM after Don Waddell's departure for Columbus, has had to navigate a challenging offseason. The departures of key players Jake Guentzel, Brady Skjei, and Brett Pesce in free agency have made the retention of talents like Necas even more critical.
Necas’ knack for clutch performances is evident in his nine overtime goals since the 2020-21 season, a figure that ties him for the NHL lead in that span. This ability to deliver in pressure situations makes him a versatile and invaluable asset to the Hurricanes, who are determined to make a deeper playoff run after their recent second-round exit at the hands of the New York Rangers.
Necas had been the subject of trade discussions following Carolina’s sixth consecutive playoff appearance, but the new deal indicates the Hurricanes’ commitment to building around their core players. This commitment extends beyond Necas, as the team is also in talks for a deal with 22-year-old restricted free agent Seth Jarvis, who has scored 33 goals and 13 playoff goals over his first three seasons. Ensuring the future of young talents like Jarvis and retaining proven performers like Necas are seen as pivotal moves for the franchise.
The Hurricanes’ postseason journey last year fell short, but with key pieces like Necas locked in, the team is poised to advance further in future campaigns. By keeping a talented player who can manufacture goals in crucial moments, Carolina sets a foundation for sustained competitiveness in a fiercely contested league.
The stability that comes with Necas’s new contract offers a glimpse of confidence as the Hurricanes gear up for upcoming battles. As the franchise continues to forge its path forward under Tulsky’s leadership, the emphasis on nurturing and retaining top talent like Necas will be crucial to achieving their championship aspirations.