2021-2022 Season Projections
For all my season previews, we’ll be utilizing my 2021-2022 team and player projections. You can find much more background on these models here, along with more on assessing value of contracts here. In this post, we’ll look at the Carolina Hurricanes.
2021 Offseason
The Hurricanes had a busy offseason and were part of a number of notable moves. They let Dougie Hamilton walk in free agency, after letting him talk to other teams ahead of free agency opening. They were busy on the trade front, acquiring Ethan Bear from Edmonton, sending Jake Bean to Columbus, and sending Alex Nedeljkovic to Detroit. Finally, they capped their offseason by signing Montreal’s Jesperi Kotkaniemi to an offer sheet, which the Canadiens declined to match.
2021-2022 Season Preview
Roster Strength
The Hurricanes remain a well rounded team with good depth, despite the loss of star defenseman Dougie Hamilton. Both their forward group and defense corps look competitive throughout the lineup. Goaltending could be the difference maker, where the Canes elected to bring in veteran Frederik Andersen to man the crease.
Forwards
The Hurricanes forwards will be led by Sebastian Aho and Teuvo Terravainen, who both have very strong projected impacts for 21/22. Andrei Svechnikov signed a long term extension that has a projected value for this season that is well below the league median. However, at just 21 years old, there is plenty of opportunity for Svechnikov to develop further such that the deal looks like much better value in future years.
The Canes overpayed for Kotkaniemi via the offer sheet, however it’s only a one year deal and was the route required to pry him out of Montreal. While the cap efficiency is low, Kotkaniemi should still be a useful contributor with a projected value of a borderline 2nd/3rd line forward.
Defensemen
With the departure of Dougie Hamilton, the Canes’ defense corps will have a different look in 21/22. Ethan Bear looks like it an excellent addition. The young defenseman’s projected impact is that of a top pair defenseman, leading to a very strong projected value.
Goaltending
The Hurricanes elected to walk away from Alex Nedeljkovic in favor of a more seasoned goaltender in Frederik Andersen. Andersen struggled in Toronto last season and it’s reflected in his 21/22 season projection. His ability to bounce back with a stronger performance this season may be the deciding factor in the Canes fate this year.
Team Performance
The Hurricanes are projected to struggle this season. Poor goaltending projections are the primary cause, so if Frederik Andersen has a bounce back season, the Canes have potential to push further up the standings.
2021-2022 In Season Updates
Make sure to subscribe and check back for updates to the 2021-2022 season projections throughout the season. Watch for updates and enhancements to the models, updated player projections using 2021-2022 season data, analysis of trades and injuries, and more.
