With the 2024-25 NHL trade deadline fast approaching, the Carolina Hurricanes could be a major player in the market—or they might opt to stay put. Having already shaken up the league by acquiring Mikko Rantanen in a blockbuster deal, they may decide their roster is set. However, as general manager Eric Tulsky has previously stated, the team is always open to making improvements. So, what should we expect from Carolina at this deadline?
Hurricanes’ Trade Deadline Approach
Each team’s strategy at the trade deadline depends on their position in the league—whether they’re a contender, rebuilding, or somewhere in between. The toughest decisions often fall on teams stuck in the middle, unsure whether to buy, sell, or do a bit of both. Heading into the season, the Hurricanes were expected to make minor additions rather than aggressive moves. With significant roster turnover in the offseason, many viewed this as more of a transition year. While the playoffs were a reasonable expectation, the same lofty Stanley Cup aspirations weren’t quite as strong as in previous seasons. But that perspective has shifted.
Carolina currently sits second in the Metropolitan Division and ranks seventh in the league by points percentage. Despite some frustrations from fans, the team has remained steady—avoiding long winning or losing streaks. With a legitimate shot at the Stanley Cup and Rantanen already in the mix, what else might Carolina do?
Addressing Center Depth
One of the Hurricanes’ biggest needs is depth down the middle. This was already an issue before trading Jack Drury, but his departure has made it even more pressing. As things stand, Carolina’s center depth consists of Sebastian Aho, Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Jordan Staal, and Jack Roslovic. Roslovic is the only right-handed shot among them, and while he has exceeded expectations, shifting him to the wing and bringing in another center could provide a boost.
The question is: What kind of center should they target? A legitimate second-line center or a depth piece to replace Drury? Had they pursued Elias Pettersson or J.T. Miller from Vancouver, the answer would have been clear. But with Rantanen in place and Kotkaniemi showing some improvement, it’s a tougher call.
Potential options include Ryan Donato, Morgan Geekie, Trent Frederic, Jake Evans, and Ryan O’Reilly. A bigger splash could be Jared McCann. While none of these players (aside from McCann) fit the mold of a true second-line center, their cost could still be high, given the demand for center depth across the league. Ultimately, Carolina seems more likely to acquire a depth center rather than a top-tier one, as a blockbuster rental move doesn’t fit their current strategy.
Evaluating the Goaltending Situation
Goaltending has been an area of concern for Carolina throughout the season, with John Gibson’s name frequently linked to the team. However, with Frederik Andersen returning and sharing duties with Pyotr Kochetkov, a trade for a goalie would likely require moving one of them in return.
At this point, the Hurricanes must weigh whether an upgrade in net is worth the cost. Unless a high-end option like Connor Hellebuyck becomes available—unlikely at this stage—a goaltending move seems more like an offseason decision rather than a deadline priority.
Bolstering Depth for a Deep Playoff Run
Successful playoff teams rely heavily on depth. Whether it’s a fourth-liner scoring a clutch goal or a depth defenseman stepping up, injuries are inevitable in the postseason. Carolina has already demonstrated strong bottom-six depth, with players like Juha Jaaska, Ryan Suzuki, and Tyson Jost stepping up when needed.
Beyond center depth, the Hurricanes could explore adding a veteran defenseman. While Riley Stillman, Ty Smith, and Scott Morrow have stepped in capably, bringing in an experienced blueliner who can provide stability in key moments would be valuable.
Rather than making a standalone move for such a player, Carolina could target a defenseman as part of a larger trade package.
Will Carolina Make Another Move?
The Hurricanes have already made a significant splash with the Rantanen deal. Even if they don’t make another major move, they’ve positioned themselves well. That said, minor adjustments are still possible. Carolina doesn’t appear willing to sacrifice its future for short-term gains, but with the team moving past its “transition year” mindset, the focus is now firmly on a legitimate Stanley Cup run.
While this deadline might not bring another franchise-altering move, Carolina remains a team to watch. Whether they tweak the roster or make another bold move, they are clearly all-in on competing at the highest level.
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