The Carolina Hurricanes are catching heat from their own fans after rumors linked the team to Michael McLeod and Carter Hart. A petition urging the front office to stay away from both players has already garnered over 1,200 signatures, with some supporters threatening to forfeit their tickets if anything goes through.
Can the Carolina Hurricanes Afford the Fallout From These Controversial Trade Rumors?
Speculation first surfaced through reports by David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period and WRAL, suggesting Carolina had checked in on both players. McLeod and Hart were among five men acquitted earlier this year in a high-profile case in London, Ontario.
While the court ruled not guilty, many fans say the stigma around the case still lingers.
For some, the idea alone is enough to damage trust. Several season-ticket holders have said they’ve written to team reps, warning they won’t renew if either player is signed. Others turned to social media, arguing that the move would clash with the culture the Hurricanes have worked to build.
Adding to the pushback is a Change.org petition titled “Urge Carolina Hurricanes to Reject Acquitted Team Canada Players.” Started by a fan who identified as a survivor of sexual assault, the petition says signing McLeod or Hart would send the wrong message and alienate supporters. It crossed the 1,200-signature mark as of the time of writing.
One fan wrote, “If there is any truth to these reports, whether as a trial balloon or a serious consideration, I want to make it absolutely clear that such a decision would be deeply disappointing.”
Another shared, “We have to move forward, not backward. Hockey is for everyone,” and urged management to draw a line.
So far, the Hurricanes haven’t commented on the chatter. The NHL has also remained quiet. The NHLPA, meanwhile, continues to back the reinstatement of the acquitted players.
Hurricanes Still Exploring Options
Setting aside the off-ice debate, the rumors underline Carolina’s search for depth. McLeod, 27, was taken in the first round by New Jersey back in 2016 but hasn’t played since stepping away from hockey in January 2024.
Hart, also 27, spent six seasons with the Philadelphia Flyers before GM Danny Briere confirmed this summer he won’t be back with the club.
Carolina is believed to be in the goalie market, where options are limited. That’s one reason Hart’s name keeps coming up as a potential fit. Still, the wave of fan opposition shows just how complicated any pursuit of these players would be.
