RFA Martin Necas will get a $6 million offer from the Carolina Hurricanes, per NHL insider Jason Gregor. Gregor reports the standoff between the Canes and Necas could result in a one-year offer worth $5 to $6 million.
Gregor reports that neither side is looking at a long-term deal. As such, the offer makes sense, as both the Hurricanes and Necas wish to play it safe for now.
Furthermore, Gregor reports that Necas wants to play center next season. That situation could pose a problem for the Hurricanes as Necas doesn’t fit coach Rod Brind’Amour’s vision.
The ongoing stalemate between the Hurricanes and Necas has led to speculation regarding the possibility of a trade. There have been reports of several teams showing interest in Necas. Insider Pierre LeBrun reports the Buffalo Sabres is very high on that list.
Also, the Columbus Blue Jackets had a deal in place at the draft this June. However, the deal fell through at the last moment.
The Carolina Hurricanes seem more inclined to keep Necas for at least one more season. However, the possibility of a trade should not be ruled out until both sides agree on a long-term contract extension.
Martin Necas, Hurricanes headed for arbitration
Necas and the Hurricanes seem destined to land in arbitration. However, Canes General Manager Eick Tulsky is hopeful that isn't the case.
NHL.com quoted Tulsky on the matter, stating:
“We’re continuing to talk to his (Necas’) agent, trying to negotiate a deal.”
While the comments sound optimistic, the fact is that both sides seem to be quite far apart.
“Obviously, both sides would prefer that to going to a hearing, but arbitration creates a mechanism where if we can’t agree on a deal, then a third party settles the deal for us," Tulsky added. "So, one way or another, it will get settled.”
Whatever the arbitrator rules, both sides will have to abide. That situation means a one-year deal with the dollar figure established in arbitration.
Regarding Necas’ trade request, Tulsky said:
“We are continuing to talk to teams, and we don’t want to miss an opportunity to make the team better, but teams have less flexibility now than they had in June, so it’s harder to find a deal now than it was then.”
By now the ship seems to have sailed on a trade for Necas. As such, the best course of action is working out a deal for this upcoming season. Whether or not that happens through arbitration, both sides must figure out something sooner rather than later.
