Unsuccessful Trade Talks: Hurricanes' Bold Move to Swap Kotkaniemi for Danault
A recent revelation by The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta on Oilersnation Everyday (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3J0vAEJpbIY) has shed light on a trade that almost happened but ultimately fell through. Pagnotta disclosed that the Los Angeles Kings were in discussions to trade Phillip Danault (https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/d/danauph01.html) to the Carolina Hurricanes, but the deal took a surprising turn.
Here's where it gets intriguing: the Hurricanes proposed including Jesperi Kotkaniemi (https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/k/kotkaje01.html), the former third overall pick, in the trade package for Danault. The Kings, however, were more concerned about the length of Kotkaniemi's contract than his $4.82MM salary. With five years remaining on his deal, the Kings were hesitant to take on such a long-term commitment.
The financial implications of this potential trade are worth exploring. While Kotkaniemi's salary is slightly lower than Danault's, the savings would have been minimal. With a difference of approximately $680K for this year and next, the Kings wouldn't have gained much financial flexibility to recall another player at the league minimum salary. Moreover, Kotkaniemi's contract extends three years beyond Danault's, adding a substantial $14.5MM in future expenses for the Kings.
But here's the twist: despite Danault's slow start this season, his offensive numbers aren't far off from Kotkaniemi's. Danault managed five assists in 30 games before the trade, while Kotkaniemi has two goals and six points in 20 games for the Hurricanes. Additionally, Danault excels in crucial center metrics like faceoff percentage and on-ice save percentage at even strength.
It seems the Hurricanes intended to offer a more substantial package, possibly including future draft picks. Without their second-round pick this season, they could have offered next year's second-rounder or one of their additional third-round picks alongside Kotkaniemi.
The failed trade negotiations reveal the Hurricanes' willingness to part ways with Kotkaniemi. With the salary cap rising and the team maintaining cost-effective contracts for their core players, Kotkaniemi's deal might not be as burdensome as it once was. Yet, considering his underwhelming performance, it's understandable that a competitive team like the Hurricanes would explore options to upgrade.
Any potential trade involving Kotkaniemi is likely to involve another player in a similar situation, much like Danault's case in Los Angeles. Despite not meeting the expectations of a high draft pick, Kotkaniemi's youth at 25 years old could still attract teams hoping to unlock his untapped potential.
And this is the part that sparks debate: is it wise for teams to trade young players who haven't reached their full potential? Are the Hurricanes making a mistake by considering moving on from Kotkaniemi? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's discuss the intricacies of player development and team strategy!
