We’re hours away from the 2024 NHL Entry Draft that will be held in Las Vegas from June 28-29. The rumor mills are on high alert as trades are already being made with multiple franchises that include draft picks, prospects, and even current roster players. Regarding the Carolina Hurricanes, they have been in the eye of the speculation storm as the last few weeks have been about whether they will keep Martin Necas or find a way to extend him. The upcoming restricted free agent (RFA) has been linked to multiple teams within the NHL and most recently, he has been rumored to be in talks involving the New Jersey Devils. The deal, according to Frank Seravalli, would include the Devils’ 10th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. If that is the case, it is known that Carolina wants a “star player in for a star player going out”. That being the case, it makes more sense for the Hurricanes to get an NHL-ready player now and maybe a high-end prospect who’s on the cusp or even a high draft pick.
Related: Devils and Martin Nečas Are a Perfect Match
A team that could make sense as a trading partner for the Hurricanes is the Winnipeg Jets. They have a “star player for star player” along with a high-end prospect who could be ready for NHL action this upcoming 2024-25 season. Furthermore, if Carolina can throw in a first-round pick, it could be a deal both sides would be okay with making either before or on draft day.
Swapping Necas for Nikolaj Ehlers
The main detail of the trade involving the Hurricanes and the Jets is the swap of Necas and forward Nikolaj Ehlers. The 28-year-old Aalborg, Denmark native is entering the last year of his seven-year, $42 million deal he signed back in October 2017. The average annual value (AAV) for the contract was $6 million. The last two seasons, including 2024-25, have a 10-team no-trade list. It is unclear if Carolina is one of those 10 teams, if not, then there is no hassle. However, if they are, it could be doable by having Ehlers waive the no-trade if he wishes to do so. The reason for the swap of Necas and Ehlers would be swapping player ability for player ability. While Necas is three years younger, it is clear what teams, including the Hurricanes, know what they are getting with Ehlers.
Related: 4 Potential Trade Destinations for Jets’ Nikolaj Ehlers
Ehlers tallied 25 goals and 61 points in 82 games for the Jets during the 2023-24 season. Furthermore, he finished the postseason with two points, all assists, in five…
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