A Little Story Of Ferland And Skinner
Luke DeCock of the Raleigh News And Observer: The Carolina Hurricanes face a crossroads of sorts when it comes to Micheal Ferland. They look at recent history where Jeff Skinner was lost for a prospect and three draft picks — none of which were a first round pick.
Ferland could fetch a first round pick which would help Carolina immensely or if he stays, how much do they pay the free agent to be? Consider, he scored 13 goals and is on a 27 goal pace, 50+ point projection. The forward scored 20 goals in his last season in Calgary.
If Ferland does not move, either way, a move may need to happen defensively. Whether that is Justin Faulk or Dougie Hamilton is the question. It is a surplus which needs to be addressed to acquire another scoring forward.
More On Ferland…
Sara Civian Of The Athletic: Ferland looks for a hefty pay raise from his $1.75 million salary and offers one simple quote.
“I would love to stay in Carolina.”
The forward realized how special it was to play with a winger like Johnny Gaudreau. Ferland provided that physical presence with an above average wrist shot. His ability to provide a killer instinct made that Calgary top line even more formidable. The comparison between Gaudreau and Sebastian Aho is compelling.
“It’s never enough for those guys,” Ferland said of Gaudreau and Aho after Carolina’s win Friday. “You’ll get some scoring chances, then the next shift Fishy is yelling down your throat ‘Get the puck in, let’s go, let’s keep it going.’ It’s what makes them special.”
Again, it comes down to Carolina’s short and long-term plans crossing paths. Ferland provides a key to success but bigger needs involve re-signing Aho, Teuvo Teravainen, and a number one goalie. There may be a chance Ferland gets to stay but right now that chance is low.
A Final Thought On Ferland
Chris Nichols of Nichols On Hockey: How much money will it cost to keep Micheal Ferland? Could it be $6 million or less or more? Darren Dreger believes the Carolina Hurricanes prefer to re-sign the heavy playing forward. Interest could span from Vegas with his WHL connection to Kelly McCrimmon to Boston and beyond.
TSN: Bob McKenzie said there are still questions if the Hurricanes will be able to re-sign Ferland or not.
“There is a belief that owner Thomas Dundon did meet with Ferland on that and we will see where that goes from here.”