Jesperi Kotkaniemi would be included in the Martin Necas trade

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David St-Jean
May 30, 2024 (8:24 PM)

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The question is not if, but when Martin Necas will be traded by the Hurricanes, as they can't afford to sign him and keep Jake Guentzel.

Indeed, the rumors are well-founded, and the forward will soon be leaving Carolina. The sooner the better for them, as he is eligible to receive an offer sheet.

We know that the Canadiens are interested since Kent Hughes has contacted his counterpart in Raleigh to discuss Necas. This news was confirmed by Pierre LeBrun.

There is news regarding a trade involving Martin Necas
According to HFTV, the Hurricanes are working hard to include Jesperi Kotkaniemi in the trade. His contract is burdensome and definitely adds negative value to the transaction.

"I've seen a lot about Kotkaniemi returning to MTL as part of a trade for Necas. I think Kotkaniemi still has the talent to be a second or third-line player, but his attitude might not fit what this management group is trying to build. I wouldn't be opposed if they considered this.

What do you think?" - HFTV

We know that Necas is exactly the type of player Kent Hughes is trying to acquire, but taking on Kotkaniemi would be very risky.

We're talking about a player who isn't really progressing and is paid $4.82 million until 2030. That's a lot of money for just a few points here and there.

However, adding KK to this trade would lessen what the acquiring team would have to give up in return. It might no longer involve a defenseman from the Canadiens' future top 4, for example, but perhaps someone like Justin Barron or Jordan Harris.