Connor Hellebuyck has drawn Carolina's attention as Scott Arniel and the Winnipeg Jets weigh a franchise-changing trade.
David Pagnotta says the Hurricanes continue checking on Hellebuyck, keeping one of the offseason's largest potential moves alive.
"According to Pagnotta, the Carolina Hurricanes remain firmly engaged in the pursuit, noting that Carolina is "always poking around" on Hellebuyck and that it "wouldn't shock me if they continue to do that." It is the kind of measured but revealing comment that tends to carry weight coming from someone who tracks these markets closely."
Frank Seravalli previously reported that Carolina submitted an offer involving Alexander Nikishin and a first-round pick. Winnipeg has not accepted that reported framework.
The Hurricanes' interest is easy to understand. Hellebuyck would give Rod Brind'Amour an established starter behind one of the league's strongest teams.
Carolina finished 53-22-7 with 113 points last season. Adding Hellebuyck would reinforce a roster already positioned for another deep spring run.
But Kevin Cheveldayoff can't move his franchise goaltender for a package that only looks attractive on paper. The return must help Winnipeg reset several areas of its roster.
Connor Hellebuyck has become the focus of trade talks between Winnipeg and Carolina
Nikishin is a 24-year-old restricted free agent with upside, but he held a limited role during Carolina's championship run. The attached draft choice would also land late in the first round.
Hellebuyck's recent results complicate his market. He went 18-23-8 and posted an .895 save percentage during a difficult season.
Winnipeg finished 35-35-12 and allowed 260 goals. Trading its starter now could mean selling after a down year rather than maximizing his value.
His $8,500,000 cap hit also narrows the field. Any buyer must absorb the contract while giving Winnipeg enough talent to justify losing the player who has defined its crease.
Carolina owns enough draft capital to improve its proposal. Pagnotta's update suggests the Hurricanes haven't dismissed the idea after their initial reported attempt fell short.
The Jets can also wait for competition. Buffalo, San Jose and several other clubs have been connected to the goaltending market, creating a chance for a stronger package to emerge.
Cheveldayoff's decision carries enormous consequences. Keeping Hellebuyck means betting on a rebound, while trading him opens a major hole for Arniel before training camp.
Carolina remains a serious name because its need, roster quality and available assets line up. But until the Hurricanes increase the return, Winnipeg has every reason to hold firm.
Should Winnipeg accept a Carolina package built around Alexander Nikishin?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
Sidney Crosby and Brad Marchand turn heads by joining Maple Leafs champion at special event
