The Carolina Hurricanes could be setting their sights on a major offseason move. With top defenseman Aaron Ekblad potentially on the NHL trade block, the Hurricanes have reportedly emerged as a team to watch. Ekblad, 28, coming off an eight-year, $60 million contract with the Florida Panthers, might be available as Florida navigates cap constraints.
Panthers’ Ekblad May Fill Key Defensive Void in Raleigh
Ekblad, a former No. 1 overall draft pick, is entering unrestricted free agency in 2025. His current deal carries a $7.5 million cap hit and includes a modified no-trade clause for the upcoming season. According to multiple reports, including one from ESPN’s Emily Kaplan, the Panthers could explore trading him to create room for other roster priorities.
This potential move comes at a pivotal time for the Hurricanes. After a 99-point regular season and a run to the Eastern Conference Final, the team is in full “Cup or bust” mode. With nearly $28 million in available cap space and a green light from ownership to spend, GM Eric Tulsky has flexibility and pressure to deliver results.
The Hurricanes have more than one need to fill this summer. While their primary goal is adding elite offensive firepower, possibly entering the Mitch Marner sweepstakes, they’re also facing potential gaps on the blue line. Dmitry Orlov isn’t expected to return, and veteran Brent Burns, now 40, is entering free agency.
That opens the door for someone like Ekblad. Known for his two-way play and physical presence, the Canadian defenseman has recorded 33 points in 56 games this season. He has a strong even-strength presence and solid advanced metrics. He’s not just a stat-sheet filler; Ekblad’s experience and leadership could immediately stabilize Carolina’s back end.
The Panthers, meanwhile, aren’t in a rush to move him. Despite being slightly over the salary cap, they could make minor roster adjustments to comply. Still, the Panthers are reportedly aggressive and open to tough calls, and Ekblad’s value on the market remains high.
Why the Hurricanes Need Defensive Help
Once considered a strength, the Hurricanes’ defense faltered during the playoffs. They gave up crucial goals due to positioning errors and overextensions in their aggressive system. The Eastern Conference Final against Florida highlighted those breakdowns, with the Panthers capitalizing on defensive lapses throughout the series.
Injuries only made things worse. For large portions of the series, the Hurricanes were without Jalen Chatfield and Sean Walker, forcing them to rely on young, inexperienced players. Orlov struggled without his usual partner, and Burns showed signs of decline.
Even their goaltending couldn’t bail them out. Frederik Andersen, who had been solid in earlier rounds, couldn’t stem the bleeding against a relentless Panthers attack.
If the Hurricanes want to contend next year, filling their defensive gaps is non-negotiable. Whether Ekblad is available through a trade or hits the open market next summer, the Hurricanes will likely monitor the situation closely.
While the team eyes star forwards, don’t be surprised if their biggest splash comes on the blue line, with a potential move for a $60 million defenseman who just might be the missing piece.