Predators, Hurricanes Among NHL Free Agency Winners & Losers
Predators – Winners:
The Nashville Predators made significant strides during the NHL free agency period, bolstering their roster with a series of key signings. One of the most notable moves was the addition of defenseman Matt Benning, who brings a wealth of experience and defensive skill to the team. Benning, a former Edmonton Oilers player, is expected to provide stability and depth to the Predators’ blue line, making them a more formidable opponent in the upcoming season.
In addition to Benning, the Predators also secured the services of veteran forward Michael McCarron. Known for his physicality and net-front presence, McCarron adds a different dimension to the Predators’ forward group and gives them added depth up front. With these signings, the Predators have addressed some key areas of need and have positioned themselves well for success in the upcoming season.
Hurricanes – Winners:
The Carolina Hurricanes emerged as one of the big winners of the NHL free agency period, making a series of savvy moves to improve their roster. One of the most significant acquisitions was the signing of goaltender Frederik Andersen, who brings a wealth of experience and proven success to the Hurricanes’ net. Andersen is expected to provide stability and elite goaltending for the Hurricanes, giving them a formidable presence between the pipes.
In addition to Andersen, the Hurricanes also added veteran defenseman Tony DeAngelo to their roster. Despite concerns about his off-ice behavior, DeAngelo is a talented offensive defenseman who can contribute on the power play and add depth to the Hurricanes’ blue line. With these key signings, the Hurricanes have bolstered their roster and positioned themselves as contenders in the upcoming season.
Predators – Losers:
While the Predators made some key additions during the NHL free agency period, they also suffered some losses that could impact their roster moving forward. The departure of defenseman Ryan Ellis in a trade with the Philadelphia Flyers was a significant blow to the Predators’ defensive depth. Ellis was a key contributor on both ends of the ice and his absence will leave a void on the Predators’ blue line.
Additionally, the Predators also lost forward Viktor Arvidsson in a trade with the Los Angeles Kings. Arvidsson was a consistent scorer and a fan favorite in Nashville, and his departure leaves a hole in the Predators’ forward group. While the Predators made some key signings to address their needs, the losses of Ellis and Arvidsson will undoubtedly impact the team moving forward.
Hurricanes – Losers:
Despite making some key signings during the NHL free agency period, the Carolina Hurricanes also suffered some setbacks that could impact their roster moving forward. The loss of goaltender Petr Mrazek in free agency was a significant blow to the Hurricanes’ goaltending depth. Mrazek had been a reliable presence in the Hurricanes’ net and his departure leaves a void that will need to be addressed.
Additionally, the Hurricanes also lost defenseman Dougie Hamilton in free agency, as he signed with the New Jersey Devils. Hamilton was a key contributor on the Hurricanes’ blue line, providing offense and stability in his own end. His departure leaves a significant gap in the Hurricanes’ defensive corps that will need to be filled. Despite their key signings, the Hurricanes will need to address these losses to remain competitive in the upcoming season.