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Carolina Hurricanes general manager Ron Francis has some big decisions to make this year as both Eric Staal and goaltender Cam Ward enter the final year of their contracts.
The 'Canes have done a lot right in this rebuild, especially on the defensive end of things, but make no mistake about it, this is a rebuild, and by the time Carolina is ready to make another run it is doubtful that Staal and/or Ward will be part of it. While of course there is no counting for loyalty in that statement, there does need to be some hockey reality here. Both players can truly help a team now and over the next few seasons and both have enormous value.
The ONLY reason both remain in Carolina at this point is because of their contracts.
At even a slightly lesser price these guys are potential difference makers and I don't know if Francis should turn down some key components for the future to bring them back. The Canes have a lot of work to do, but a lot less when you look at what you can get from Staal.
The past few days we have looked at what teams have the most to prove, and come deadline time this year that is only going to become more apparent. Staal is still a top-line player in the NHL, and if placed around other top-liners he could spell a long playoff run for a team on the bubble. The price would surely include prospects and first round picks, which we all know are becoming more and more important in a hockey world with ever-improving young talent.
What's the Buzz?
1. What would you give up for Staal or Ward at the deadline? 2. Do you believe the Canes should bring both players back? 3. Do you think they will?
We will discuss all this and more on today's HockeyBuzzCast Live at 1pm.