Carter Hart and Michael McLeod (Getty Images) The Carolina Hurricanes are quietly positioning themselves as one of the more intriguing teams to watch this NHL season. Amid uncertain futures for goaltender Carter Hart and forward Michael McLeod, insider Frank Seravalli recently linked both players to the Hurricanes, while explicitly ruling out the Edmonton Oilers and Philadelphia Flyers as potential landing spots.
Why Carter Hart makes sense for the Hurricanes’ goalkeeping situation
Carter Hart, once seen as a rising star in the NHL, now faces an uphill battle to revive his career. The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly not interested, with Seravalli bluntly stating, “Carter Hart is not going to be signing with the hometown Edmonton Oilers. I’ve been told that that’s a non-starter for the Oilers organization.” Similarly, the Flyers seem out of the picture after letting Hart’s rights expire during the Hockey Canada trial drama.The Hurricanes, valued at $1.25 billion by Forbes, offer a perfect mix of need and financial flexibility. Frederik Andersen, now 35, has struggled with injuries in recent years, while Pyotr Kochetkov has yet to solidify himself as a starter. Adding Hart could provide much-needed stability between the pipes without breaking the bank.
Michael McLeod could provide versatile depth to boost Carolina’s playoff push
Meanwhile, Michael McLeod’s ability to play both center and wing makes him an attractive option for Carolina’s bottom-six forward group. After trading Jack Drury last season, the Hurricanes are searching for versatile players to support a deep playoff run. McLeod fits the bill as a cost-effective addition, potentially offering solid two-way play and energy on the ice.Also Read: Dillon Dube could shock the NHL by joining Maple Leafs, thanks to Brad Treliving linkAlthough no official deal is imminent, the potential pairing of Hart and McLeod with the Hurricanes is one of the NHL’s most interesting storylines to follow this fall.