Hurricanes now working on free agency deals

Peter Koutroumpis, Triangle Sports Network
Peter Koutroumpis, Triangle Sports Network
Peter Koutroumpis, Triangle Sports Netwo

RALEIGH, N.C. – A day before the National Hockey League’s (NHL) free agency deadline, it was expected that the Carolina Hurricanes would make some announcements to continue shaping the team’s roster for the upcoming season.

Talking during a conference call with the local media following the conclusion of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft on Saturday, executive vice president and general manager Ron Francis was asked if he had made decisions on current restricted and unrestricted free agents.

Having signed forwards Chris Terry and Nathan Gerbe, along with defenseman Ron Hainsey last week, Francis wasn’t yet ready to give any details on anyone else’s status, but indicated that the team would be prepared to announce intentions for signing other players early in the week.

“We have to make some decisions on a couple of qualified offers for Monday – we’ll get those things out,” Francis said.

He said his staff was going to meet Sunday to determine the final list of players who the team would qualify with offers or not.

Francis also pointed out that the team was not intending to use a compliance buyout, and that they also had their eyes open to fill a few gaps after knowing who will be re-signing and returning.

“I think we’re looking for solidifying the fourth line, maybe a depth defenseman at this point,” he said.

“The fourth line, they have to be able to do something in addition to playing fourth-line minutes,” Francis continued.

“Whether it’s special teams – PK or PP – or something with those dynamics. You want guys who can contribute to your team with more minutes and find ways to do that.”