Carolina Hurricanes Rumors: Team To Let 14-Year Veteran Forward Hit Open Market

The Carolina Hurricanes are making preparations to let veteran forward Max Pacioretty test the open market on July 1st.

As they aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season, the Hurricanes are expected to not re-sign Pacioretty, considering his age and recent injury history.

"But Dundon said the departures of Max Pacioretty and Ondrej Kase after injury-ruined seasons will open up roster spots that weren’t available last fall, which could mean there’s still room for older free agents like Stastny and Stepan" - I'm gonna need some clarification on #67. https://t.co/cJNrpLYQz2

— y - Carolyn C. (@HMof2) May 30, 2023

With over $24 million in cap space available, they have the financial flexibility to pursue other options and add a scorer to their lineup.

This approach allows the Hurricanes to explore potential trades and target teams looking to shed salary without taking on excessive financial obligations in return.

Waddell on the possibility of bringing Max Pacioretty: back "As far as Pacioretty goes, obviously he’s been through a lot and we don’t know what the future is going to hold there… I don’t even know when he’ll be able to play. The expectations and all that. (1/2)

— Ryan Henkel (@RyanHenkel_) May 31, 2023

The 34-year-old should still draw attention on the open market, given his continued goal-scoring ability. In the five games he played this season with the Canes, he scored three goals. In addition, across the last seasons prior, Pacioretty has racked up an impressive 75 goals over 158 games.

If he can stay healthy, he'll be a nice addition to a team. Photo Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports