Hurricanes Sign Paul Stastny to 1-Year UFA Deal

The Carolina Hurricanes have announced they’ve signed Paul Stastny to a $1.5 million, one-year deal. The veteran free agent was rumored to be holding out for a deal with a Stanley Cup contender and the Hurricanes certainly qualify. The 36-year-old will bring leadership and experience, along with a versatile mindset, hoping to help the team in a top-nine role.

SIGNED!!

The #Canes have inked Paul Stastny to a one-year deal 👊

Details » https://t.co/jkDEew2iTG pic.twitter.com/1bM8M6AIvA

— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) August 23, 2022

It didn’t seem like Stastny was in a rush to make a decision. Insiders figured he would be looking at what most other free agents did, along with how teams approached their respective offseasons, and then he would make a decision. Knowing he’d be signing a value deal to play with a contender, there wasn’t a real concern there wouldn’t be a spot for him on an NHL roster. He produced 21 goals and had 45 points in 71 games with the Winnipeg Jets last season. Considering he’s making just $1.5 million, that’s a value deal.

With Nazem Kadri now signed, there aren’t many (if any) big names still on the market that could change the outlook of the season for teams in 2022-23. Statsny wasn’t likely going to get a better look at the landscape unless he elected to wait for teams to clear more salary off their books.

“Paul is an extremely reliable veteran who has been effective at both ends of the ice for his entire career,” Hurricanes general manager Don Waddell said. “He adds even more experience and leadership to our forward group, and we are excited to have him in Carolina.”

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