Carolina Hurricanes Prospects: Deadline Moves Create Opportunity
By Austin Isham
Other Departures
In addition to Julien Gauthier, the Charlotte Checkers lost a handful of other pieces alongside the Carolina Hurricanes. In their first transaction of the day, the Canes acquired Vincent Trocheck in exchange for Erik Haula, Lucas Wallmark, Chase Priskie and Eetu Luostarinen.
The former second rounder, Luostarinen, was in his first season in North America. Adjusting to the smaller ice surface and more physical style of play, the rookie had 25 points in 44 AHL games. Seeing a brief stint up in Raleigh, the Finnish forward was among the prospects likely competing for a depth role next year.
Also departing in the Florida deal, Priskie has had a solid start to his professional career. Entering the organization this summer as an unsigned college free agent, the addition of Joey Keane made him a bit redundant. With 31 points from the back end, his production is going to have to be replaced as well.
Departing in the Sami Vatanen deal, Janne Kuokkanen leaves as the Checkers’ top point-getter this season. With 42 points in 52 games, he was well on his way to set new career highs in every statistical category. His loss, like Gauthier’s, is going to be extremely difficult to replace.
Signed during training camp, Fredrik Claesson became a nice depth piece for the organization. This season he has been one of the better shut down defensemen in the AHL. With some NHL experience, he was one of the leaders on Charlotte’s roster. The intangibles he brought are going to be rather difficult to replace.