Martin Necas revealed that prior to re-signing with the Carolina Hurricanes, he was equally uncertain about staying with the team or leaving.
“(There was) lots of talking between us and Carolina. It was 50-50,” Necas told Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman. “I didn’t have the best season, wasn’t happy. But we turned the page, we figured out a way to stay for two more years … I feel like Carolina is my home. … At the end of the day, I’m happy that I’m back and can prove to people there that I’m better than I was last season. I’m excited, I’m pumped.”
Necas, a restricted free agent, signed a two-year contract with the Hurricanes on July 29, worth an average annual value of $6.5 million. Reports in late May indicated that multiple teams expressed interest in Necas following criticism from his father regarding the team’s use of his son. The Hurricanes had also reportedly included Necas in trade discussions with several teams.
Necas noted that the Winnipeg Jets and Columbus Blue Jackets showed serious interest, but some of his teammates were instrumental in persuading him to remain with Carolina.
Last season, Necas’ performance declined compared to his breakout year as a center in 2022-23. He registered 24 goals and 29 assists in 77 games during the 2023-24 season, a drop from his previous 28 goals and 43 assists in 82 games.
His average ice time also decreased from a career-high 18:25 to 17:21 per game. Although there were concerns about his relationship with Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour, Necas expressed confidence in improving their dynamic.
“I think we will and we have to,” Necas said. “It’s important for us, I’ve got to give him something for him to give me (more ice time). I never had a problem with Rod off the ice, we’ve always been good to each other. I’ve got to be better. Be a player he can trust. I’m looking for a bigger role, I definitely want to play more, but obviously I’ve got to show it on the ice, and I already talked with Rod.”
Necas has been with the Hurricanes throughout his seven-year career, after being drafted 12th overall in 2017. He will be eligible for unrestricted free agency at the end of his current contract.
