Max Domi
It’s not rare to see someone that is traded at the deadline get an extension from the team that they are traded to if they play well. I think it is fair to say Max Domi has written himself into the Carolina Hurricanes history books. It was a deal that was almost not made, but the Canes felt the need to make it happen and brought in the extra forward help and he has repaid the team’s faith in a big way.
Domi has gotten better and better as his time in Raleigh has gone on, especially given his reduced role in the lineup. He’s been annoying, not taken too many penalties, and he’s done pretty well in the situation he’s been asked to play. Not to mention, he’s got five points this postseason and has been a key contributor to their offense in major moments, like game seven against Boston where he became a Canes legend.
As a primarily pass-first guy that only plays five on five, that is not too difficult to replace from within, but what he does in big moments and the way he sticks up for his teammates cannot be overstated. He’s versatile and can play anywhere in the lineup, and in any position in the lineup. He’s a nice piece to have but I don’t know if it is possible to keep him because this will very much depend on what he asks for.
If he asks for $4 million, I think there’s a deal to be made. If he wants a pay raise from his $5.3 million, I don’t have a doubt that he will be testing the free-agent market. Domi seems to like it in Raleigh and I don’t know if that’s genuine or if it’s Domi trying to get accustomed to the fan base, but either way, I’d like to see him back if there’s room. Obviously, other players are priorities, but he could be a nice depth piece.
Next up, it’s time to Step up.