Throughout the franchise's short history, the Carolina Hurricanes have always fielded competitive, successful teams. They even took home a Stanley Cup in 2005-2006. However it is no secret that the Canes, based out of Raleigh, NC, are a small market team. Their success is based off of drafting well (See Eric Staal, Cam Ward, Jeff Skinner) and some smart, economic spending in both the trade and free agent markets. The strategy has led to success on both the ice and the balance sheet.
This off-season the Canes have taken a different approach.
First, the Hurricanes traded for Jordan Staal and then signed the talented center to a 10 year $60 million dollar contract extension. While the addition of Staal clearly added talent to the Canes roster, it was also seen as a symbolic move to show thanks to star Eric Staal by pairing him with his brother. Basically, it made sense both on and off the ice, even though it wasn't a move the Canes would have normally made.
After the addition of Staal, most fans expected the front office to make other small additions, but no major signings.
That changed today when the Hurricanes announced that the team had agreed to terms with left wing Alexander Semin.
Semin, 28, spent the first seven seasons of his career playing for the rival Washington Capitals. He has scored at least 20 goals each of the last six seasons. His contract is a one year deal worth $7 million, making him the second highest paid player on the Hurricanes.
Strategically, Semin fills a need at wing and provides a much needed scoring threat. Canes fans' eyes will light up when thinking about the lineups coach Kirk Muller can put out next season with Semin in the fold.
More importantly, the signing of Semin makes a statement for the entire organization.
It says that the club is willing to spend big to win big. It says that they arn't scared to go after big name players, and that they arn't scared to challenge the big boys of the hockey world.
Don't expect the Hurricanes to all of the sudden become the Bruins or Blackhawks, but this off-season shows that the Canes arn't just satisfied to be middle of the pack.
Right now, it shows that they are Stanley Cup contenders.
Chris Fields is a Chat Sports senior writer. E-mail him at: Chris@ChatSports.com or reach him on Twitter: @Chris_Fields
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