The start of free agency is just over a week away and teams have plenty of work to do. There are some tough decisions that need to be made and clubs make look completely different. The flat-cap era is forcing teams to have to have to move players they may not want part with. Today’s NHL rumours focuses on a Carolina Hurricanes defenceman that can find a new home.
The rumour is that Hurricanes blueliner Tony DeAngelo has permission to seek a new home. This rumour comes from Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman.
https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1543482920417038337
Carolina Hurricanes Defenceman Can Make Move
DeAngelo seemingly found a new home in Raleigh after an unceremonious ending with the New York Rangers. The Sewell, N.J. native lost a big contract and his place in the league after some turbulent times during the 2020 offseason. However, he settled in as a capable replacement for Dougie Hamilton.
The 26-year-old netted 10 goals and 41 assists for 51 points in 64 games with the Canes. General manager Don Waddell took a risk with a $1 million deal and DeAngelo is ready to cash in. However, it’s likely not going to be in Carolina. Waddell has given DeAngelo permission to seek a deal with another team.
DeAngelo is a restricted free agent, but he likely won’t be getting a qualifying offer from the Hurricanes. The controversial defender will hit the free agent market with a chance at getting a raise.
What it Means
The blueliner does have some skills, but has gotten into some off-ice trouble. These issues could prevent a team from giving a big-money deal like he’s gotten in the past.
The Rangers tried putting their faith in DeAngelo, but it blew up in their faces. He kept his nose clean with the Hurricanes and will likely get a spot on another team. However, it may not be for the money he wants.
There’s still a market for an offensively talented defenceman like DeAngelo. However, he’s going to continue to show that he can stay out of trouble on and off the ice.
Fewest games to hit the 30 point mark in a season by a defenceman in Hartford Whalers/@Canes franchise history (1979-):
26- Mark Howe (1980-81)
30- Tony DeAngelo (2021-22 via 2 assists in a game his Hurricanes lead 3-1 vs NYR)
31- Dave Babych (’85-86)
31- Dougie Hamilton (’19-20) pic.twitter.com/knWlwfozX2— StatsCentre (@StatsCentre) January 22, 2022
