3 Potential Free-Agent Destinations for Teuvo Teravainen

The Carolina Hurricanes are expected to re-tool this offseason and have a number of pending free-agents who could be playing elsewhere next season. This includes veteran winger Teuvo Teravainen.

Teravainen is coming off a five-year $27-million contract and will be looking for a similar deal this summer. In 76 games with the Hurricanes last season, the Finnish winger recorded 53 points, including a career-high 25 goals. He added another six points in 11 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

With the likelihood of Carolina moving on this summer in another direction, here's three teams who should be interested in Teravainen come July 1:

Chicago Blackhawks

Teravainen was a former first-round pick of the Blackhawks back in 2012 and there could be a reunion this summer. GM Kyle Davidson has quickly realized that Connor Bedard is the real deal and now the tides have shifted in the windy city with more emphasis on NHL proven talent this offseason. Teravainen is the kind of offensive talent and experienced winger the Blackhawks would and should be adding more of. They have boat loads of cap space so money isn't an issue.

Utah HC

Utah is in the same mindset as the Blackhawks as they are looking to take a giant leap forward in 2024-25. Teravainen would give them a top-six winger and someone who can play in all situations, which Utah needs much more of. He's defensively sound, kills penalties and as mentioned, is coming off a career-high in goals. Keep an eye on Utah as they will be uber-aggressive in the free-agent market this summer as owner Ryan Smith has very deep pockets and a willingness to spend.

Buffalo Sabres

The Sabres finished last season ranked 23rd in goals-per game and are looking to find some secondary scoring behind Tage Thompson and Dylan Cozens. Teravainen is the perfect target for them as he's shown consistency throughout his 10 NHL seasons and also has 50 points in 90 Stanley Cup Playoff games. It's this type of experience and veteran leadership the Sabres need more of.