Secret long-term contract in place for Kotkaniemi in Carolina!

The news of the Carolina Hurricanes signing an offer sheet with Montreal Canadiens centre Jesperi Kotkaniemi has taken over the NHL since the past few days. The Canes revealed that they have an agreement that would see the 21-year-old restricted free agent join Carolina on a one-year deal worth $6.1 million, which most folks doubt the Habs will match. 

As we await the Canadiens’ final decision, reports have come out that the Hurricanes have already discussed the possibility of a long-term deal with Kotkaniemi. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman mentioned that the Canes were able to come out with a strong offer sheet after they negotiated a long-term contract. 

On top of that, former NHL enforcer and now radio host Georges Laraque also reported that there is a secret deal in place between the Canes and Kotkaniemi, a deal that would come with a $4 million annual salary. 

Kotkaniemi had 20 points (five goals, 15 assists) in 56 regular-season appearances for Montreal last year, and added five goals and three assists in 19 playoff games. He was selected him third overall by the Habs in the 2018 NHL entry draft, but could now wear a different uniform in the upcoming season. 

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