Carolina Hurricanes Trade Rumors: Nick Schmaltz of the Arizona Coyotes linked to team

The Carolina Hurricanes have been the NHL's second-best team this season. As the March 3 trade deadline approaches, the Hurricanes are looking to add a few more pieces to their offensive line that can provide stability.

The Hurricanes missed out on a chance to sign Timo Meier, who could have been a huge addition to their team. Since Meier is no longer available in the market, the Hurricanes will need to look for other options.

According to NHL Trade Rumors, the Hurricanes are interested in forward Nick Schmaltz and have held trade talks with the Arizona Coyotes.

Schmaltz is one of the league's most talented players. The 27-year-old would be an excellent fit for the Hurricanes in terms of improving their offense, as he can play both as a center and in the right wing and will pair well with Martin Necas up front.

Schmaltz has appeared in 43 games for the Coyotes. He has 39 points this season, with 17 goals and 22 assists, making him the Coyotes' second-leading goal scorer.

Nick Schmaltz is under contract with the Coyotes for seven years and is owed $40.9 million. He has a $5.85 million cap hit and will be an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season.

The Carolina Hurricanes, meanwhile, have plenty of salary cap space, so pursuing Schmaltz will not be financially burdensome. On the other hand, the Arizona Coyotes are going through a rebuilding phase and are open to listening to offers for their star player.

The Hurricanes can expect a first-round pick and a good prospect from the Coyotes as part of the Nick Schmaltz trade.

The Carolina Hurricanes acquired Jesse Puljujarvi from the Edmonton Oilers

On Feb. 28, the Carolina Hurricanes acquired forward Jesse Puljujarvi from the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for forward prospect Patrik Puistola.

Following the completion of the trade, Carolina Hurricanes general manager Don Waddell spoke to the media and stated that Pullujarvi is a perfect fit for the team.

Waddell said:

"Jesse possesses a great blend of size and skill, and he will add to the depth of our forward group. He has familiarity with some of our other Finnish players, and we see him as a great fit for our team and locker room."

Jesse Puljujarvi has appeared in 58 games for the Oilers this season, totaling 14 points (five goals, nine assists).