Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic has taken a closer look at the situation facing the Carolina Hurricanes and defenseman Dougie Hamilton and provided an update as to where a possible contract extension might sit.
First, LeBrun notes that Hamilton and the Carolina Hurricanes have not started talking an extension yet. The defenseman is a year away from free agency and while Don Waddell has noted the importance of getting a deal done and keeping Hamilton a part of the fold for years to come, he’s not rushing the negotiations.
LeBrun reports that the Hurricanes will at some point talk to Hamilton’s camp to get a better idea as to what Hamilton’s expectations are, but speculation seems to be that both sides want to see how this offseason’s free agency plays out.
Hamilton is said to be watching the Alex Pietrangelo deal closely and will use it as a possible comparable. Meanwhile, Waddell will do the same knowing that Pietrangelo could provide somewhat of a marker for his dealings with his own defenseman.
There Could Be a Wrinkle
Where this could get interesting is should Pietrangelo not sign with the Blues. LeBrun writes:
As for Pietrangelo, sources confirm there have been some contract talks between the Blues and Newport Sports, who represent the St. Louis captain. Still some work to go there. I honestly think it’s a 50-50 proposition as to whether Pietrangelo re-signs.
Should Pietrangelo not sign and hit the free agent market, it’s difficult to know both what he’ll get and what he’s really worth considering this offseason will be potentially quite different from other offseasons.
Does Hamilton have the same cache and as Pietrangelo might? Most insiders believe that despite needing to cut back on salaries paid out to free agents, Pietrangelo is uniquely is his own category of free agent. He’s going up against the likes of Torey Krug, Tyson Barrie and TJ Brodie. Pietrangelo clearly stands out above the rest.
Can Hamilton say that?
Also interesting is that Hamilton made Frank Seravaill’s TSN Trade Bait Board at the No. 20 spot. A lot of people were surprised to see him there but one has to assume any move will all come down to what he/his agent wants.
The Hurricanes have been quick to move players in the past when the asking price does not match where the team has the player valued. If Hamilton wants the maximum dollar he thinks he can earn, the Hurricanes have the horses on the blue line to move him.
Next: Schultz Done With Penguins: What Kind Of Market Is Out There For Him?
