Johan Larsson
Another player that might be of interest to the Hurricanes’ front office is 30-year-old forward, Johan Larsson. At 5’11, 200 lbs, Larsson seems to be another one of these players that could see himself without a home as we approach training camp, but could be a useful addition for a couple of reasons.
Larsson can play either wing or center. With the versatility the Swedish forward offers, teams would have a little more flexibility with how they build their roster, specifically in the bottom six. Allowing yourself options because of a player lower down the lineup having the ability to play everywhere, allowing you to invest money into different positions could help a ton. Especially if there are injuries.
Larsson isn’t entirely just a bottom-six forward either. Although he isn’t the biggest producer for a team, he knows what he needs to do to put pucks in the net. In 43 games last year, Larsson had 7 goals and 14 assists for 21 points. Most of that was on an Arizona Coyotes team that was garbage during his tenure. They took a step forward after he was traded to the Washington Capitals, but he was not the reason for their poor performances.
If the Hurricanes were to slot Larsson into their lineup on the fourth line, the team becomes instantly deeper. When the Hurricanes decide who is going to plan on their fourth line, someone like Johan Larsson might very well be in their final consideration because he is someone that makes for a strong forechecker and an ideal bottom six fit. Not a flashy name, but one to remember.