The first thing to remember with this deal is that it is a PTO contract or professional tryout contract. That means that the Carolina Hurricanes are not on the hook for any serious money if they decide not to sign Raffi Torres. Currently he just has the opportunity to earn a spot on the team.
There were plenty of factors that went into this move for GM Ron Francis and many of them make sense. First, the Hurricanes are a notably young team and have been one of the least physical/aggressive teams in last few seasons.