The Carolina Hurricanes locked up an important piece of their future on Thursday, signing Andri Svechnikov to a brand-new eight-year deal with $7.75 million per season.

The Hurricanes were absolutely delighted to extend Svechnikov, who is one of their best offensive weapons. President Don Waddell spoke on the new contract, via NHL.com:

“Andrei is one of the cornerstones of this organization, and we are thrilled to reach a long-term commitment to keep him here,” said Waddell. “He is one of the brightest rising stars in our sport, and will play a key role in our efforts to bring the Stanley Cup to the Triangle this decade.”

The 21-year-old Svechnikov enjoyed an impressive campaign in 2020-21, scoring 15 goals and adding 27 assists in 55 games. He helped the Hurricanes defeat the Nashville Predators in the first round of the playoffs before they fell to the Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning.

He's already set records within the Hurricanes organization, becoming the all-time Russian-born leading scorer for Carolina. Svechnikov has notched 59 goals across three NHL seasons after getting drafted second overall in 2018. In the process, the Canes have made the playoffs every year since his arrival.

This is a great signing for the Hurricanes as they aim to make another run in the 2021-22 campaign.