The Carolina Hurricanes didn't win the Stanley Cup this past season. They have been in offseason mode since the month of May after their loss to the New York Rangers. However, despite the Hurricanes' efforts to keep Jake Guentzel, no contract extension has been worked out just yet. New general manager Eric Tulsky knows time is of the essence now.
Tulsky addressed a number of offseason topics with The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun on Wednesday. On the topic of Guentzel, the Carolina general manager expressed optimism in getting a deal done. However, he acknowledged that the moment to get a deal done will approach sooner rather than later.
“We’re trying very hard on that one,” Tulsky said, via The Athletic. “We are not that far apart. I’m still optimistic it’s going to get done. But it’s not done yet and we’re running out of time.”
The complications facing Jake Guentzel, Hurricanes
At the beginning of the offseason, Carolina had time on their side. Guentzel could not negotiate with other teams until his contract expired days after the 2024 NHL Draft. However, time is quickly running out, as Tulsky mentioned. NHL Free Agency begins on July 1. At noon on Monday, free agents can begin negotiating with other teams.
Of course, this can increase the urgency between the two sides to get a deal done. However, with the open market so close, Guentzel can also hold out to see what other teams may offer. The veteran forward has never had the opportunity to pick his next team. Having that sort of unconditional control over his career is certainly appealing.
Furthermore, the Hurricanes have a lot of other matters to attend to. Defensemen Brady Skjei and Brett Pesce are unrestricted free agents on July 1, as well. Additionally, Carolina is examining the trade market for winger Martin Necas, who wants a change of scenery. Having all of these things on the table can take some focus away from a Jake Guentzel contract extension.
“I’ve had a month to sort through all of our player contracts, getting to know all of the other teams and getting to know what they want, finding out what’s on the trade market, it’s been busy. I’ve set an all-time record for calls made and received. But you know, that’s the job,” Eric Tulsky said, via The Athletic.
The Hurricanes acquired Guentzel for a Stanley Cup push. It ultimately failed in 2024, but they certainly hope the veteran winger can be a major piece of the team moving forward. Let's see if Carolina can work out a new contract with Guentzel before NHL Free Agency opens.
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