Just over a week ago the Canes traded longtime captain, and franchise center, Eric Staal to the New York Rangers for former 89th overall pick (2015) Aleksi Saarela and two future second round draft picks. An unrestricted free agent at season’s end, Staal will be shopping for a new contract this summer.
The Eric Staal trade is the franchise’s biggest statement since the Jordan Staal acquisition on draft day in 2012. It is General Manager Ron Francis’ defining move; the man of few words has finally put his mark on this Hurricanes team.