The Carolina Hurricanes are gearing up for a serious Stanley Cup run this season, and every move they make leading up to the March 6 NHL trade deadline will be laser-focused on that goal.
Enter Jesperi Kotkaniemi. At just 25, with four years left on his contract, he's not the typical trade candidate for a team eyeing the Cup. But Carolina hasn't quite unlocked his full potential, and a fresh start might be just what Kotkaniemi needs.
If another team is willing to offer something valuable in return, the Hurricanes should give it some thought. Kotkaniemi, a former third overall pick, hasn't fully lived up to expectations in Carolina.
However, his age and position as a center make him an intriguing option for teams seeking young talent. As noted by Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos, Carolina isn't going to let him go for nothing; any trade would need to bolster their immediate championship ambitions.
Kotkaniemi's $4.8 million cap hit is significant, but not prohibitive, especially if he begins to tap into his potential. While the Hurricanes might not relish the idea of him flourishing elsewhere, the reality of chasing the Cup sometimes requires tough decisions.
If a team in rebuild mode can offer a proven playoff performer for Kotkaniemi, it could be a win-win scenario, aligning perfectly with Carolina's quest for glory this season.