The Carolina Hurricanes solidified their goalkeeping situation this week after the team traded backup goalie Eddie Lack.
Along with Lack, defenseman Ryan Murphy and a 2019 seventh-round pick were sent to the Calgary Flames in exchange for prospect Keegan Kanzig and a 2019 sixth-round pick.
This deal does not come as a surprise, as the Hurricanes were expected to deal either Cam Ward or Lack to thin their depth at goalie. This move cements Ward into the backup role for 2017, an idea that is rather odd considering his 11-year starting career.
Ryan Murphy was destined to become a free agent this offseason and was cut after being acquired by the Flames. He quickly signed a one-year contract with the Minnesota Wild. Murphy spent his first four years in Carolina and was a solid defender, but only played 27 games for the Hurricanes this past year.
Coming into Carolina is defensive prospect Keegan Kanzig. He played in the WHL for four seasons and was signed to an entry-level contract by the Flames before his fourth season in 2013. He made the WHL playoffs every year and became known as an enforcer around the league this past season.
At 6’7 he towers over forwards and plays the puck with physicality. He is an excellent shot-blocker who makes his money on the penalty kill. He possesses dominant strength and handles the puck with ease for his size, which could have huge upside in the NHL.
He will likely suit up for the Hurricanes’ minor league affiliate, the Charlotte Checkers. Carolina has a wealth of defenders so Kanzig will be ready to fill in if any injuries occur. He is very close to being NHL ready according to his former coaches, so I wouldn’t be surprised to see Kanzig called up late in the season when the playoff push is in full motion.
The Hurricanes will be relieved to lose Lack’s contract but will still have to pay him $3 million next year. The Canes are strapped for money due to several bad contracts over the years, so anything helps.
Carolina has now set their roster and they are ready to practice for the upcoming season. This deal helps the Hurricanes save money and officially sets the goalies for next year. With every move this offseason they have seemed to get better, which gives this squad full of youngsters a breath of confidence.
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