General Manager Don Waddell has had a rough ride since being appointed as permanent GM in 2018. His early decision-making was derided in some parts by fans of the Carolina Hurricanes, not happy with seeing Jeff Skinner, Noah Hanifin and Elias Lindholm depart for such low returns.
While the Skinner trade continues to rankle, that trade with Calgary is evening out thanks to the New Year surge from Dougie Hamilton and Micheal Ferland, and the increasing belief that Adam Fox will sign with the team. The UFA signing of Calvin de Haan was an excellent move, and the acquisition of Jordan Martinook has been fantastic.