Rumors: Should Seattle Pursue a Trade for Martin Nečas?

A couple of hours ago, David Pagnotta of NHL Network suggested that the Carolina Hurricanes are in talks with six teams, aiming for a "hockey" trade involving Center/Winger Martin Nečas. According to Pagnotta, one of these teams is the Seattle Kraken.

It's exciting news, as the Kraken haven't been in the mix for anything significant since the draft. Let's dive into who Martin Nečas is, why Seattle might want him, and whether it makes sense for the Kraken to make a move.

Who is Martin Nečas?

Martin Nečas is a Czech-born Center/Winger who has spent seven years in the NHL with the Carolina Hurricanes. Known for his scoring ability, smooth hands, relentless play, and speed, Nečas has become a crucial part of the Hurricanes' roster.

Analytically, Nečas is a high-octane player with an offensive focus, often creating dangerous chances. Despite his defensive shortcomings, his offensive prowess makes him a valuable asset. His ability to create high-danger opportunities, alongside players like Seth Jarvis and Sebastian Aho, has made him a key player for the Hurricanes.

Why Would Carolina Move on from Him?

Simply put, it's about money. Nečas has been a strong performer for the Hurricanes, but he's likely asking for a salary that exceeds what the team is willing to pay. Despite his contributions, the Hurricanes are hesitant to make a significant financial commitment, especially after failing to reach the Cup Final for the fifth consecutive year. Tensions between Nečas and the team have also surfaced, with his father indicating that Nečas may never play for Carolina again.

What Does Seattle Have That Carolina Would Want?

This is where it gets tricky. Carolina is looking for a "hockey" trade, meaning they want a player of comparable value rather than draft picks or prospects. Seattle might have to part with key players such as Oliver Bjorkstrand, Jordan Eberle, or Jaden Schwartz. Losing any of these players, especially Bjorkstrand, would be a tough blow given their importance to the team's defensive and offensive strategies.

Should Seattle Do It?

This is a complex question. On one hand, Nečas' offensive skills and speed would address some of Seattle's scoring issues. He fits the profile of the player that GM Ron Francis has indicated the team needs. Nečas could thrive under Dan Bylsma's coaching, potentially playing a significant role for the Kraken.

However, there are concerns about Nečas' defensive impact and his desire for a top-six role and power play time, which might not align with Seattle's current lineup. There's also the risk of being out-negotiated by Carolina, known for their shrewd trading tactics.

In summary, while Nečas could be a valuable addition, the Kraken need to carefully weigh the potential benefits against the costs of losing key players and the risk of disrupting team chemistry.

What do you think?