The Carolina Hurricanes made a significant move on Wednesday by securing the services of free agent forward William Carrier on a substantial six-year, $12 million deal. Carrier, a pivotal member of the 2023 Stanley Cup-winning team, is now committed to the Hurricanes until the conclusion of the 2029-30 NHL season.
At 29 years old, Carrier’s recent performance with the Vegas Golden Knights during the 2023-24 season saw him tally six goals and provide two assists across 39 games. Despite grappling with an upper-body injury that sidelined him for a substantial portion of the season, Carrier still managed to rank fifth among Vegas forwards in hits, totaling an impressive 90.
Describing Carrier’s playing style, Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky lauded him as a robust forward known for his relentless work ethic on both offensive and defensive fronts. Tulsky emphasized Carrier’s prowess on the forecheck, highlighting his reputation as a formidable opponent for any team. Tulsky expressed the organization’s enthusiasm in incorporating Carrier’s veteran experience into their lineup, foreseeing his role as a stabilizing force.
Carrier’s professional journey spans 413 games, initially launching with the Buffalo Sabres during the 2016-17 season before finding his stride with the Golden Knights. Over this tenure, he has accumulated a total of 107 points, comprised of 58 goals and 49 assists, accompanied by a commendable plus-17 rating.
In summary, the Hurricanes’ signing of William Carrier stands as a strategic move to fortify their roster with a seasoned player renowned for his physical presence and tenacity. As Carrier embarks on this new chapter with Carolina, his track record suggests he will be a valuable asset both on and off the ice, contributing to the team’s pursuit of further success in the competitive landscape of the NHL.
