Report: Carolina Hurricanes Extend Top Defenceman
The Carolina Hurricanes prioritized Jaccob Slavin among their upcoming free agents this summer, swiftly securing his future with an eight-year contract. The deal features an average annual value (AAV) of $6.43 million, highlighting Slavin’s importance to the team’s core.
Carolina Hurricanes Extend Jaccob Slavin
Jaccob Slavin stands out as one of the Carolina Hurricanes’ biggest draft successes, notably chosen in the fourth round. Emerging from Colorado College, not typically a hockey powerhouse, Slavin quickly progressed from a rookie to a cornerstone defenseman for Carolina.
Often labeled as a defensive defenseman, Slavin’s game extends beyond just his defensive prowess. His ability to read plays, maintain strong positioning, and use his stick effectively make him a formidable force in shutting down opponents and causing turnovers. He’s trusted to match up against the NHL’s top stars, enabling Carolina to pair him with more offensive-minded defensemen like Tony DeAngelo, Dougie Hamilton, and at times, Brent Burns.
#Canes Jaccob Slavin is expected to sign an 8-year extension in the $51 million range once eligible at 12 noon ET.
Always dangerous to be precise with AAV, but was told 8 years x $6.43 million.@DailyFaceoff
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) July 1, 2024
What often goes unnoticed is Slavin’s adeptness in transitioning the puck. He excels at stopping plays, retrieving the puck, and swiftly making breakout passes or carrying it up the ice. His knack for generating offense isn’t always highlighted in his point totals—his career-high being 42 points—but when combined with his defensive reliability and smooth transition play, it underscores why he’s considered a cornerstone of the Hurricanes’ lineup.
What This Means Moving Forward
The Carolina Hurricanes’ decision to extend Jaccob Slavin is a pivotal move for the organization, solidifying him as a core player they value immensely. Regarded as one of the top shutdown defensemen in the NHL, Slavin’s importance to the team extends beyond his on-ice contributions.
Carolina acted swiftly to secure Slavin’s future, recognizing the risk of losing him to free agency. His role as an alternate captain reflects his leadership qualities, community involvement, and overall impact on and off the ice. Awarded the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct this year, Slavin exemplifies effective and disciplined play throughout his career.
Having spent his entire career with the Hurricanes, both sides appear committed to continuing this successful partnership, ensuring Slavin remains a cornerstone of the team’s identity and success moving forward.