Elliotte Friedman hints at an incoming trade involving $38 million centerman Jesperi Kotkaniemi
Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
Jesperi Kotkaniemi hasn't lived up to expectations in Carolina, and now, the 'Canes are reportedly listening to offers on the 25-year-old center.
The Carolina Hurricanes improved immensely over the summer, but as the 2026 trade deadline approaches, there has been plenty of chatter about them being aggressive on the trade market.
With the Eastern Conference being wide open this season, there's plenty of reason for this team to be aggressive, with many noting that they will be looking to upgrade at the 2C spot, especially.
Jesperi Kotkaniemi close to being moved by the Hurricanes
Since arriving in Carolina, Jesperi Kotkaniemi has shown promise, but has struggled to put together dominant stretches for the Hurricanes, and now, the team seemingly recognizes that he needs a fresh start somewhere.
That has led to him being involved in trade talks for Quinn Hughes and Phillip Danault already, and now, according to Elliotte Friedman, the team is weighing up several offers that they've already gotten for him.
According to several sources, Carolina is considering offers as you read this. The Hurricanes are contending for a Stanley Cup, so they want either something that can help them now or something they can use to help them now. Either path is necessary to get something done. - Elliotte Friedman
It's unclear as of right now what those offers are and from whom, but given that KK has just 66 points across his last 2.5 seasons, it's safe to say that if there's anything substantial, it makes sense for the team to make the move now.
If any trade can help them upgrade down the middle as they look to contend for the Stanley Cup, then all the better, but given the expectation that he joined the team with, it's probably best for both parties if he's moved on in the very near future.
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| POLL | ||
JANVIER 9|385 ANSWERS Elliotte Friedman hints at an incoming trade involving $38 million centerman Jesperi Kotkaniemi Will Kotkaniemi be moved by the 2026 trade deadline? | ||
| Yes | 298 | 77.4 % |
| No | 87 | 22.6 % |
| List of polls | ||