Tony DeAngelo
Yes, the most polarizing player on the roster is a pending RFA. Already listen in most trade bait boards, Tony DeAngelo is the one most people are going to be watching because his one-year deal with the Canes has expired. What happens with the Sewell, New Jersey native is going to be interesting because of the position he is in. There’s not a situation like DeAngelo in the league.
DeAngelo has already been ostracized from three organizations in the NHL and a lot of other teams will have reservations about the man who was kicked out of the New York Rangers team last season. However, Raleigh seems to have created an environment that DeAngelo has been able to find success in as he managed to tally 10 goals and 41 assists for 51 points in 64 games.
It has been reported that Carolina could look to move the RFA defenseman on due to his contract demands. Not knowing anything about what they could be, this is not the moment to start speculating. When there’s no news coming from DeAngelo, that is a good thing given his previous track record. If he is moved, replacing him would be very difficult. DeAngelo sighted being a loyal guy in his exit interview.
If the Canes don’t bring him back, it is going to be very difficult to replace his production at that cost. I know that this is not something that will be a major worry for the team right now, but it is going to be a daunting task to replace him if he’s moved. You won’t get a player as good as DeAngelo is on the blueline for him so you’re looking at free agency and I just don’t see it.
What do you think? Am I completely insane with anyone here? Let me know. Let me know what you think will happen with each of these pending restricted free agents and tell me what you think will happen moving forward.