The Carolina Hurricanes have locked in one of hockey’s promising young forwards by signing Logan Stankoven to an eight-year extension, confirmed on Monday. The contract, featuring a $6 million average annual value (AAV), will begin in the 2026-27 NHL season and extend through 2031-32, keeping the rising star in Raleigh for the foreseeable future.

Stankoven’s Early Impact and Playoff Performance with Carolina

Acquired last season from the Dallas Stars during the trade involving Mikko Rantanen, Stankoven quickly made his mark with Carolina. Despite limited time to settle in, he managed five goals and four assists in 19 regular-season games. His playoff run was even more impressive, contributing five goals and totaling eight points over 15 games as the Hurricanes advanced to the Eastern Conference Final before falling to the eventual Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers.

From Dallas Draft Pick to Emerging NHL Talent

Logan Stankoven’s professional journey began after being selected 47th overall by Dallas in the 2021 NHL Draft. He rapidly rose through the ranks, making his NHL debut during the 2023-24 season. Finishing that campaign with 14 points in 24 games, he demonstrated solid depth scoring for a Stars team that secured second place in the Central Division. Altogether, Stankoven accumulated 14 goals and 24 assists, totaling 38 points in his rookie season.

Career Achievements and International Success

In just 102 NHL appearances, Stankoven has already compiled 52 points, including 20 goals and 32 assists, along with a respectable 16 points across 34 postseason contests. His accolades extend beyond the NHL, having earned the Dudley Red Garrett Memorial Award as the AHL Rookie of the Year in 2024. Internationally, Stankoven has celebrated gold medals with Team Canada at the 2021 IIHF Under-18 World Championship and the 2022 and 2023 IIHF World Junior Championships.

Significance of the Contract and Carolina’s Future Prospects

With more than $26.7 million in cap space available for the upcoming season, the Hurricanes have strategically invested in Stankoven’s future as a key figure in their roster. This commitment highlights Carolina’s confidence in his continued development and potential to contribute significantly over the next decade. Securing such a promising talent under a long-term contract strengthens the Hurricanes’ aspirations to remain competitive and contend for the Stanley Cup in the years ahead.