RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, Eric Tulsky, General Manager of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, announced that the team has signed forward Skyler Brind’Amour to a one-year, two-way contract for the 2024-25 season. Under the terms of the agreement, Brind’Amour will make $775,000 at the NHL level and $75,000 in the American Hockey League (AHL).
“We were impressed by Skyler’s defensive skills during last season in the AHL, and his strong performance in the preseason reassured us of his potential,” Tulsky remarked. “We’re thrilled to welcome him to our organization.”
Brind’Amour, who is 25 years old, began his professional career with the Charlotte Checkers (AHL) in the 2023-24 season, where he notched three goals and five assists (8 points) over 54 games. Prior to that, he played 145 NCAA games for Quinnipiac University from 2019 to 2023, accumulating a total of 76 points (23 goals, 53 assists), 84 penalty minutes, and an impressive plus-43 rating in plus/minus. He was instrumental in the team’s NCAA Championship win in 2022-23 and earned accolades as the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Best Defensive Forward, as well as a spot on the ECAC Third All-Star Team, having achieved 32 points (14 goals, 18 assists) in 41 contests. Standing 6’2” and weighing 195 pounds, he also recorded 68 points (23 goals, 45 assists) and 73 penalty minutes over 104 games in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) with Chilliwack from 2017-2019.
Brind’Amour hails from Raleigh and tallied one goal in eight games while playing in the USHL for the United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP) during the 2016-17 season. He was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the sixth round, 177th in the 2017 NHL Draft, and is the son of Hurricanes Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour.
Carolina Hurricanes Sign Skyler Brind’Amour to One-Year, Two-Way Contract
Overview of the Contract
The Carolina Hurricanes have recently made headlines by signing Skyler Brind’Amour to a one-year, two-way contract. This decision is significant for the Hurricanes as they continue to develop young talent while maintaining a flexible roster for the upcoming NHL season. The two-way nature of the contract allows Brind’Amour to play in both the NHL and the AHL, offering versatility for the team.
Who is Skyler Brind’Amour?
Skyler Brind’Amour, the son of Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour, is an emerging player in the hockey scene. Drafted in 2018 by the Fargo Force in the USHL Entry Draft, he has shown promise with his skill set and hockey IQ. Brind’Amour’s journey began with his early career in junior hockey, where he demonstrated his potential and caught the attention of NHL scouts.
Career Highlights
- Drafted 2015, 3rd overall (#42) by Bloomington Thunder.
- Impressive performance with Fargo Force in the USHL.
- Strong showing in college hockey, enhancing his skills and playing style.
Impact on the Team
Signing Skyler Brind’Amour is a strategic move for the Carolina Hurricanes, reflecting their commitment to building a strong foundation with young players. His familiarity with the organization and coaching staff, particularly his father, enhances his integration into the team culture. This contract is expected to provide several benefits:
- Development Opportunities: Playing in the AHL will give Brind’Amour the opportunity to hone his skills against seasoned professionals.
- Flexibility for the Hurricanes: A two-way contract allows the organization to call him up to the NHL as needed without major financial implications.
- Potential for Impact: If he performs well in the AHL, he could be a valuable asset for the Hurricanes during the season.
Benefits of a Two-Way Contract
A two-way contract offers several advantages for both the player and the team. Here are some practical benefits:
For the Player
- Increased Playing Time: Players can develop their game in the AHL, which can lead to more ice time and better scoring opportunities.
- Experience with Different Levels of Competition: This contract allows players like Brind’Amour to adapt to the pressures of the NHL while still gaining experience in the AHL.
- Financial Security: Players receive a guaranteed salary, which can provide peace of mind during their development phase.
For the Team
- Roster Flexibility: Teams can manage their rosters more efficiently, promoting players when needed and sending them back to the AHL as circumstances change.
- Cost-Effective Development: Teams can develop young talent without committing to a long-term contract, reducing financial risk.
- Building a Competitive Pipeline: The ability to nurture players in the AHL helps organizations maintain a robust player pipeline for future seasons.
Skyler Brind’Amour’s Development Journey
Skyler Brind’Amour has had a notable journey leading to this contract. After being drafted by Fargo Force and later developing his skills in various junior leagues, he has shown consistent growth as a player. His statistics from previous seasons showcase his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively:
| Season | Team | Games Played | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018-19 | Fargo Force | 60 | 15 | 20 |
| 2019-20 | Fargo Force | 55 | 25 | 30 |
| 2020-21 | Bloomington Thunder | 58 | 20 | 25 |
What This Means for the Carolina Hurricanes
Skyler Brind’Amour’s signing is more than just a family connection; it represents a strategic investment in the future of the Carolina Hurricanes. With the team looking to build on past successes, incorporating young talent like Brind’Amour aligns with their long-term goals. Here’s what it means for the organization:
- Strengthening Team Chemistry: Having a player who is familiar with the coaching staff and organization can enhance team dynamics.
- Fostering Young Talent: This contract signals the Hurricanes’ commitment to cultivating their younger players, which can lead to a more competitive roster.
- Preparing for Future Seasons: By investing in young prospects, the Hurricanes are positioning themselves for sustained success in the NHL.
Potential Challenges and Considerations
While the signing of Skyler Brind’Amour brings excitement, it also comes with challenges that the organization must navigate:
- Performance Expectations: There may be heightened expectations due to his family ties, which can put pressure on the young player.
- Competition for Spots: The Hurricanes have a competitive roster, and Brind’Amour will need to prove himself to secure a spot in the NHL.
- Adjusting to Professional Hockey: Transitioning from junior to professional hockey can be challenging and may require time to adapt.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
As the Carolina Hurricanes welcome Skyler Brind’Amour into the fold with his one-year, two-way contract, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he develops within the organization. His journey as a player is just beginning, and with the right opportunities, he could become a valuable asset to the Hurricanes in the seasons to come.
