Jack Roslovic Joins Carolina Hurricanes After Stint with Rangers…
Jack Roslovic is set to join his third team within the Metropolitan Division. The former New York Rangers forward, who also played for the Columbus Blue Jackets, has signed a one-year contract worth $2.8 million with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Roslovic’s new contract represents a significant pay cut, coming after several days of free agency without a deal. Previously, he was under a two-year, $8 million contract with an annual value of $4 million, signed with the Blue Jackets in June 2022.
Despite his inconsistency and a dip in production with both New York and Columbus last season, the Hurricanes see potential in Roslovic for a top-six role next season.
“Jack is a dynamic player who has consistently contributed offensively throughout his career,” said Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky. “His addition brings speed and skill, bolstering our forward group.”
Roslovic’s potential has often outshined his actual performance. Over seven NHL seasons with the Rangers, Blue Jackets, and Winnipeg Jets, he has only surpassed 20 goals once (22 goals with the Blue Jackets in the 2021-22 season) and never scored more than 12 in any other season.
Acquired by the Rangers before the 2024 NHL trade deadline, Roslovic recorded eight points (three goals, five assists) in 19 games. Despite playing primarily as the top line right wing with Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider, he didn’t secure the opportunity.
In the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Roslovic started strong with points in each of the first five games, including two power-play goals in the first round against the Washington Capitals. However, he managed only three assists for the rest of the postseason, finishing with eight points (two goals, six assists) in 16 games as the Rangers were eliminated by the Florida Panthers in the Eastern Conference Final.
Roslovic’s move to the Hurricanes aims to reinvigorate his career and provide Carolina with an offensive boost.
Additionally, Smith, a left-shot right wing known for his clutch performances in big games, has also been signed by the Rangers. He played a significant role in the Golden Knights’ deep postseason runs, notably leading the team with 22 points in 20 playoff games during their 2018 Stanley Cup Final appearance. With 79 points in 106 career playoff games, Smith is expected to contribute significantly to the Rangers’ top-six role and help fill the leadership void left by Barclay Goodrow and Blake Wheeler’s departures. Smith has accumulated 513 points in 840 NHL games across his career with the Dallas Stars, Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, Golden Knights, and Penguins.
