It’s time for some more NHL rumours with us here at Last Word On Hockey. This time, the Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly in talks to sign a controversial player, just at the outset of NHL training camps beginning. The NHL recently announced the reinstatement of the five players involved in the 2018 Canadian Team World Junior Scandal. Following a lengthy process, including a trial and absence from the NHL, Carter Hart, Dillon Dube, Alex Formenton, Callan Foote, and Michael McLeod are now free agents. The latter of the group, Michael McLeod, is, at this time, expected to sign with the Carolina Hurricanes. Let’s unpack the details, and whether we can find a scenario that works.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours and Where Things Stand Between Michael McLeod and Carolina
Rumour: David Pagnotta of The Athletic reported today that he expects the Carolina Hurricanes to sign Michael McLeod. Nothing official has been announced by the team or any other sources. Pagnotta did not indicate when the deal could be done, nor the dollar value and term of the potential contract.
Analysis: If he signs, McLeod is the first domino to fall in the signing of the newly reinstated five players. While it’s unclear if Dube, Formenton, and Foote can find NHL work again, McLeod and Hart were solid NHL players. This potential signing shows the team’s willingness to stand by the NHL’s decision on reinstatement, regardless of potential backlash. He is only 27 years old and theoretically in the prime of his career. However, considering his situation, it’s unlikely he receives a large contract from the Hurricanes, or any team, as is the case at this time.
What this Means
On a hockey level, McLeod brings solid depth to the Hurricanes’ bottom six. It may take some time for him to regain his footing at the NHL level, but he brings a power-forward, physical style of play. His speed should also serve him well in a penalty killing role for the team. The Canes forward group is among the deepest in the NHL, and adding Michael McLeod to the mix should only boost it. McLeod typically plays centre, so it’s possible this means Jesperi Kotkaniemi will be moved to the wing for Carolina. Regardless of where he plays, McLeod, would be a good value signing and an upgrade on many of their current bottom-six depth.
This really boils down to whether or not Carolina is willing to make the move. It is clear they want to identify winners, and some of these players are excellent at doing what it takes to get the job done. McLeod has a career high of 26 points in 80 games. He’s bound to be an effective piece if he can regain his form and continue on his career trajectory.
He would be a good fit. We just need to keep in mind, players can’t be officially signed until October 15th, 2025. Therefore, there remains some uncertainty whether or not he will sign. Teams are extra cautious about any possible tampering, and wouldn’t want any specifics getting out ahead of time. Although, if it truly is a foregone conclusion, what could be the problem? The players are currently serving their NHL-imposed suspension, where they can return to action on December 1st. In any sense, it brings a sense that the five players will, effectively, get a second chance to prove themselves as professionals, and National Hockey Leaguers.
Main Photo: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
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