The Carolina Hurricanes may be out on Timo Meier, as reported by multiple insiders Sunday afternoon, but they’re still interested in upgrading their team, especially their forward group.
The Hurricanes sit with the second-best record in the NHL, and adding a piece or two could put them as legitimate Stanley Cup contenders.
Here are three players that the Carolina Hurricanes could add at the NHL Trade Deadline
1- Conor Sheary
The Carolina Hurricanes should consider trading for Conor Sheary because he could add depth and versatility to their forward group. Sheary is a speedy winger who can play on either side of the ice and has a proven track record of scoring goals in the NHL. He has experience playing in big games, having won two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016 and 2017.
They have a strong top-six group of forwards, but adding a player like Sheary could provide additional scoring and depth to their lineup. With his ability to play on either wing, he could fit in nicely with a number of different line combinations.
His contract with the Washington Capitals is also relatively affordable, which could make him an attractive target for the Hurricanes, who may be looking to add depth without breaking the bank. Overall, acquiring Sheary could be a low-risk, high-reward move for the Hurricanes.
2- Nick Ritchie
The Carolina Hurricanes could benefit from trading for Nick Ritchie due to his size, physicality, and offensive potential. Ritchie is a power forward who can play on the wing and has shown flashes of offensive skill throughout his career. He is also a physical player who can provide a physical edge to the Hurricanes' lineup.
The Carolina Hurricanes have a strong group of forwards, but they lack size and physicality. Hence, Ritchie could add a new element to their forward group and provide a net-front presence on the power play.
Additionally, his contract is affordable, which could make him an attractive trade target for the team and acquiring him could be a low-risk, high-reward move. He has the potential to be a valuable contributor to their forward group and provide a physical presence that they currently lack in the NHL.
3- Elias Pettersson
If you’re not going after Meier, why not go after someone better? Pettersson is a dynamic playmaker who can create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. He is also a skilled goal scorer and has demonstrated a strong ability to finish around the net.
The Carolina Hurricanes have a strong group of forwards, but adding a player of Pettersson's caliber could take their offense to the next level. He would give them a true number one center, a position they have been lacking in recent years.
While trading for him would likely require a significant package of assets, his potential impact on the Hurricanes could make it a worthwhile move. He would give them a legitimate star player to build around and help them compete at a high level for years to come.