Jets Never Offered Perfetti to Hurricanes for Necas, Despite Rumors
The Carolina Hurricanes recently secured forward Martin Necas with a two-year contract extension worth $6.5 million annually, easing concerns among fans that he might be traded. However, those concerns were amplified by a report from Frank Seravalli, claiming that the Winnipeg Jets had offered Cole Perfetti, Rutger McGroarty, and a draft pick for Necas, only for the Hurricanes to reject the offer. The idea that the Jets would part with two promising young players and draft capital seemed far-fetched. A more reliable source from within the Jets’ community has now confirmed that such a deal was never proposed.
In a tweet on August 2, 2024, Scott Billeck of the Winnipeg Sun clarified the situation, stating that the Jets had no intention of trading Perfetti. Instead, it was the Hurricanes who had shown interest in acquiring him, but the Jets made it clear he was off-limits. Additionally, any potential trade involving Necas was unlikely to materialize since he had expressed no interest in signing a long-term deal with Winnipeg. While a deal might have been close if Necas had been open to re-signing, it was never the blockbuster trade Seravalli suggested.
Necas Would Have Bolstered Jets’ Lineup
Necas, known for his offensive contributions, would have been a valuable addition to the Jets. At just 25 years old, he still has room for growth. Last season, he tallied 24 goals and 29 assists, totaling 53 points in 77 games, averaging 0.69 points per game. Over his career, he has accumulated 97 goals and 146 assists for 243 points in 362 games, averaging 0.67 points per game. Adding a player capable of consistently scoring 50-60 points per season would have been a significant boost for the Jets’ top-nine forwards, though the asking price was likely too steep.
While some Hurricanes fans have reservations about Necas’ defensive consistency, he showed improvement last season. If he can continue to develop into a top-tier two-way forward, teams that passed on him might regret it. Necas has the potential to become a superstar at the NHL level and seems poised for a breakout season. The Jets may have been wise to retain Perfetti and McGroarty, but they might have missed an opportunity by not pursuing Necas more aggressively with other assets, especially if they are aiming for a deep playoff run.
Sabres’ Interest in Necas Also Reported
Seravalli also mentioned that the Buffalo Sabres had expressed interest in Necas but withdrew from trade talks due to his lack of interest in re-signing. While the Sabres may have considered acquiring Necas, it seems unlikely that negotiations progressed far given the Hurricanes’ high asking price. The Sabres are not currently in a position where trading prospects for a rental player like Necas would make sense.
Ultimately, Necas remains with the Hurricanes, who are gearing up to challenge for their first Stanley Cup since 2006. After deciding not to trade him, the Hurricanes are counting on Necas to elevate his game, break out offensively, and help lead them to a championship this season.
