Carolina Hurricanes could buy out former top pick Jesperi Kotkaneimi

The Carolina Hurricanes are contemplating a significant decision regarding Jesperi Kotkaniemi's future as they navigate a tricky salary cap situation. The 24-year-old Finnish forward has struggled to meet expectations since being drafted third overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, and now the Hurricanes must decide whether to retain him or use their short-term buyout window.

In a move that has intensified scrutiny on Kotkaniemi's future with the team, the Hurricanes recently signed restricted free agent Martin Necas to a two-year, $13 million contract. This deal triggers a 48-hour buyout window, which opens 72 hours after signing and provides an opportunity for the team to make financial adjustments before the upcoming season. With limited cap space and other priorities, the Hurricanes have a challenging decision ahead.

Carolina currently holds approximately $6.44 million in cap space, but this figure is misleading. The team still needs to re-sign 22-year-old RFA Seth Jarvis, who is coming off a breakout season with 33 goals and 34 assists in 81 games. Jarvis is viewed as a core component of the Hurricanes' future, and the team likely wants to secure him with a long-term contract. However, doing so requires clearing cap space, potentially at Kotkaniemi's expense.

The potential buyout of Kotkaniemi's contract presents a viable solution to Carolina's cap challenges. Here's the financial breakdown of what a buyout would entail:

- **2024-25 to 2026-27:** $835,000 per season
- **2027-28 to 2029-30:** $455,000 per season
- **2030-31 to 2035-36:** $835,000 per season

Since Kotkaniemi is only 24 years old, the buyout would cost the Hurricanes one-third of the remaining contract value, totaling $3.985 million. This move would free up $10.425 million in cap space, allowing the team to comfortably accommodate Jarvis's new contract and potentially make additional roster improvements.

Since joining the NHL, Kotkaniemi has faced criticism for not living up to the high expectations set when he was drafted. Despite showing flashes of potential, his inconsistent performances have led to questions about his long-term fit with the Hurricanes. During his time with Carolina, Kotkaniemi has struggled to solidify a key role, prompting the team to consider other options.

The decision to buy out Kotkaniemi's contract could signal a shift in strategy for the Hurricanes as they focus on building a roster that maximizes their competitive window. General Manager Eric Tulsky faces the challenging task of balancing the team's immediate needs with future aspirations.

The Hurricanes are at a crossroads, with the decision on Kotkaniemi's future potentially shaping their trajectory for years to come. On one hand, retaining him could provide an opportunity for the young forward to prove his worth and contribute to the team's success. On the other, buying him out could offer the financial flexibility needed to secure key players like Jarvis and pursue additional talent.

For now, the clock is ticking, and the Hurricanes must weigh their options carefully. As the buyout window approaches, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see whether Carolina will make a bold move to optimize their roster.

Source: Blade of Steel
Carolina Hurricanes forward likely to become prime cap casualty