The Carolina Hurricanes continue to fill the void that Dougie Hamilton left by signing defenceman Brendan Smith. The contract is only for this season with a salary of $800,000. Smith, previously a member of the New York Rangers, scored five goals and five assists for 10 points in 48 games last season.
Hurricanes Sign Free Agent Brendan Smith
The #Canes have agreed to terms with Brendan Smith on a one-year contract
Details » https://t.co/EggS9oHaSE pic.twitter.com/1AFNMTQPW1
— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) July 29, 2021
The Hurricanes added another defenceman today by signing Smith. Smith is a left-shot, bottom-pair defenceman. He’s not the most offensively skilled blueliner the Canes have, however, he will be a nice addition to the defence group going into this season. He’s strong in the defensive end, starting the majority of shifts in his own zone. He might not be the best with the puck, but he can clear out a play and give the team time to set up on the offensive end of the ice.
A former 27th overall pick in the 2007 draft, Smith has played for the Detroit Redwings, the Rangers, and will be e member of the Hurricanes this fall. Through 526 NHL games, he’s scored 29 goals and 81 assists for 110 career points. Smith has also appeared in 42 playoff games throughout his career. In those outings, he has scored two goals and eight assists.
What This Means for the Hurricanes
The Hurricanes won’t have nearly as offensive a blueline as they did while Dougie Hamilton was on the team. In his, and recently signed Jani Hakanpaa, replacement the team has gained five new blueliners. Along with Smith, the team traded for Ethan Bear and signed Ian Cole, Jalen Chatfield, and former Ranger Anthony DeAngelo. The team might not have a player that replicates Dougie’s production, but general manager Don Waddell has done his best to lessen the blow taken from his departure in free agency. With the addition of Smith, the blue line has a much different makeup than it did during the season. However, there is still plenty of offence to be generated from the newcomers.
