3 Trade Rumors Following the Carolina Hurricanes into the 2023-24 Season

The Carolina Hurricanes are expected to be a powerhouse in the eastern conference this season. They were busy adding pieces to their roster during the summer months and expect much of the same throughout the 2023-24 season as 'Canes ownership isn't going to accept anything less than a Stanley Cup.

The Hurricanes will continue to be busy on the trade market and look for general manager Don Waddell to make a splash throughout the season. Speaking of trades, here's three rumors that will continue to follow the Hurricanes into this season:

Brett Pesce Remains Trade Target for Onlooking Teams

Trade talks ran rampant during the summer months as a number of teams reached out to the Hurricanes about a deal for defenseman Brett Pesce. He has one season left on his deal and word is contract talks on an extension haven't progressed as much as the team would like. Pesce is one of the most underrated d-men in the league and it's going to take a significant offer to get the 'Canes to bite.

Antti Raanta Will Be On Team's Radars

With Frederik Andersen re-signed to a multi-year deal and with youngster Pyotr Kochetkov signed for the next four years, it's Raanta who is most likely to be moved of the three. He's coming off a great season where he posted a 2.23 goals against average in 27 games. If there's a major goalie injury across the NHL early on this season, look for Raanta to be an option. His one-year deal he signed in July did not come with any trade protection.

Management Will Be Aggressive

The Hurricanes will start the season about $1 million under the cap. They have three draft picks in the first two rounds next Spring and they're going to be very aggressive on the trade market when it comes to rentals. When Carolina does eventually add this season, look for a top-six forward and one who can be versatile enough to play down the middle if needed.

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