The Carolina has been one of the few contenders to make a move so far as they stood pat, watching all their competition make big splash after big splash. They specifically watched the New York Rangers acquire Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko as the Devils got Timo Meier. One thing the Canes have done well is not getting caught up in all these trades as they wait to make their move ahead of the trade deadline.
This evening they made their first 2023 Trade Deadline deal official as they acquired defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere from the Arizona Coyotes in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick.
While it is no Jakob Chychrun blockbuster trade, the Hurricanes seem to have gotten a steal with Gostisbehere, as he is known for his offense from the blue line. Gostisbehere was hurt for the majority of February but made his return four games ago on February 19th. Since then, he has already recorded a goal and an assist as he returns to his offensive ways. On the season, the 29-year-old has ten goals, 21 assists, and 31 points in 52 games. He is also solid on the power play as he has three goals and ten points on the man advantage.
Gostisbehere joins a defensive unit featuring Jaccob Slavin and Brent Burns, allowing the left-shot defenseman to slot in on the second and third pairings. The Hurricanes now find themselves with defensive depth as they also have Brady Skjei, Brett Pesce, Calvin De Haan, and Jalen Chatfield on their blue line.
The veteran defenseman is set to be a free agent at the end of the season, allowing the Canes to let him walk or bring him back if the price is right. Gostisbehere is wrapping up a six-year contract with an annual cap hit of $4.5 million.
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