The Carolina Hurricanes have decided not to exercise the buyout option related to Jesperi Kotkaniemi‘s contract, even though the first buyout window of the summer is nearing its closure.

Daily Faceoff reporter Frank Seravalli states on messaging service X that the team does not plan to proceed with a buyout, even though there is still a so-called one-third buyout option available before the deadline.

Kotkaniemi did not play at all during the Stanley Cup championship-ending playoffs and watched the games from the stands. Nevertheless, Carolina has not made a decision to part ways with the player through a buyout.

According to Seravalli, the Hurricanes are now looking more towards the trade market and exploring options for a trade. The team aims to find a new team for Kotkaniemi instead of terminating the contract through a buyout.

Seravalli estimates that the anticipated rise in the salary cap could make Kotkaniemi’s $4.82 million annual salary more easily movable than before.

Additionally, the limited supply in the NHL center market could increase Kotkaniemi’s value in a trade situation. His current contract is valid until the summer of 2030.

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