The Carolina Hurricanes’ campaign concluded with a defeat at the hands of the reigning Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers in the Eastern Conference Final. The Panthers won the series 4-1, preventing Carolina from advancing further in the playoffs and signaling ongoing challenges for the team in overcoming this obstacle.

Despite avoiding a series sweep by winning Game 4, the Hurricanes’ postseason struggles persist, as their overall record in the Eastern Conference Final since 2009 stands at a dismal 1-16 across four appearances. Their last trip to the Stanley Cup Final dates back to 2006, meaning they must wait at least another year to compete for the championship again. Meanwhile, several important free agents on the roster face uncertain futures with the franchise heading into the summer.

Potential Departures Among Carolina’s Key Players This Offseason

Following the series loss to the Panthers, Carolina must now focus on an offseason filled with difficult roster decisions. Multiple pivotal players are due for free agency, raising questions about who will return to bolster the Hurricanes’ chances next season. The choices made this summer will reveal the team’s direction as they aim to break their playoff ceiling.

Brent Burns’ Uncertain Status as a Veteran Defenseman

At 40 years old, Brent Burns stands out as one of the most experienced leaders within the Hurricanes lineup, but his longevity in the NHL is nearing its conclusion. The team faces a dilemma concerning his $8 million salary cap hit, which could be redirected toward acquiring younger, faster talent to enhance competitiveness.

Should Burns re-sign, it is expected to be a short-term agreement, possibly just for one more season on a significantly reduced contract. Although retirement rumors have circulated, there has been no official statement from Burns himself. His remarkable 21-year career included playing all 82 games last season, underscoring his continued ability to perform at a high level despite his age.

Jack Roslovic’s Role and Prospects for Renewal

Jack Roslovic completed his first season with Carolina after signing a one-year contract worth $2.8 million. He integrated well into the Hurricanes’ top-six forwards, netting 22 goals during the regular season and proving to be a valuable contributor.

However, his presence during the playoffs was limited to nine games, where he managed only a single goal. Roslovic’s performance represented a balanced risk with good reward, making his retention by Carolina a likely possibility. Still, salary cap constraints and roster priorities could require him to accept a pay cut to stay.

Dmitry Orlov’s Playoff Struggles Cast Doubt on Return

Despite accumulating 876 career NHL games, Dmitry Orlov experienced a difficult postseason with the Hurricanes in 2024, particularly during the conference final against the Panthers. His defensive lapses were glaring as Florida capitalized multiple times, especially in Game 3 where Orlov was on ice for four Panther goals in a 6-2 loss.

Given these challenges, Orlov is expected to enter unrestricted free agency, and it appears unlikely Carolina will offer him a new contract, reflecting a need to improve their blue line effectiveness moving forward.

Jesper Fast’s Future Hangs in Balance Amid Injury Recovery

Jesper Fast has reliably served as a bottom-six forward known for his durability and forechecking skills, earning $2.4 million last season. His role provided secondary scoring and energy for the Hurricanes, but he missed the entire playoff run due to injury.

This absence raises doubts about whether he will re-sign with Carolina or test the free agent market since his health and value could influence the team’s decision and his prospects elsewhere.

Spencer Martin’s Likely Departure from the Organization

Goaltender Spencer Martin, primarily a depth player with appearances mostly in the American Hockey League, only stepped in this year due to an injury to starter Frederik Andersen. Given his limited role, it is almost certain he will not return to Carolina next season, as the team looks to bolster goaltending options elsewhere.

Broader Roster Considerations for the Hurricanes Moving Forward

In addition to navigating free agency, the Hurricanes face important choices regarding overall roster construction. Their inability to progress beyond the conference final has become an unsettling trend, casting doubt on the current team composition and approach.

Coach Rod Brind’Amour has led Carolina to seven consecutive playoff appearances, consistently posting strong regular seasons. Nevertheless, their failure to advance, evidenced by the 1-16 record in conference finals since 2009, points to a need for potentially significant changes if the Hurricanes hope to finally reach the Stanley Cup Final again.