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Hurricanes Actively Seeking Affordable Stopgap Defenseman via Trade

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated Oct 31, 2025 7:30 PM ET

According to Frank Seravalli on Frankly Hockey, the Carolina Hurricanes are actively working the phones in search of blue-line help. With injuries to K’Andre Miller, Jaccob Slavin, and Shayne Gostisbehere, the team is running thin on serviceable defensemen.

“Sources indicate that the Carolina Hurricanes are active on the trade front,” Seravalli reported. “They want to acquire a stopgap defenseman — someone they can plug into their lineup now that’s not going to cost them an arm and a leg. A warm body that can give them some NHL minutes.”

General manager Eric Tulsky is reportedly making calls across the league, targeting inexpensive options who can step in immediately and stabilize the back end. The Hurricanes aren’t believed to be pursuing forwards at this time, despite other injuries on the roster.

That’s largely because rookie Bradly Nadeau, who recently scored his first NHL goal, has helped offset those absences up front. As a result, Carolina’s attention remains focused on shoring up its defensive depth without sacrificing key assets.

As for who might be available, pending UFAs that might be available include Matt Grzelcyk of the Chicago Blackhawks, Troy Stecher of the Edmonton Oilers, and Vincent Desharnais of the San Jose Sharks.

The Hurricanes have been hit hard by injuries early this season and appear intent on finding a quick, low-cost solution to keep their playoff hopes on track — one that won’t disrupt the long-term roster balance Tulsky has been carefully managing.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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