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Hurricanes news roundup: Janko extension fallout, back on the ice, and an ELC signed

As time moves at a glacial pace before the Eastern Conference Finals, the Canes got some offseason work done to start the week as they returned to the ice.
Apr 10, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, UNITED STATES; Penn State Nittany Lions forward Charlie Cerrato (15) controls the puck against the Boston University Terriers  during the first period of the Frozen Four college ice hockey national semifinals at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
Apr 10, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, UNITED STATES; Penn State Nittany Lions forward Charlie Cerrato (15) controls the puck against the Boston University Terriers during the first period of the Frozen Four college ice hockey national semifinals at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images | Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

Tulsky, Brind'Amour, and Jankowski talk about his fit and versatility

In case you missed it on Monday, Mark Jankowski earned a two-year extension with the team worth $3.7 million ($1.85m AAV). The decision prevents the pending unrestricted free agent from reaching the market on July 1. It also, seemingly, solidifies what the Canes will look like next season at center, with Jankowski likely to occupy the fourth-line spot.

Jankowski said that Carolina was a "seamless fit" for him and expressed how much he wanted to stay. General Manager Eric Tulsky added to this, describing Jankowski as an "excellent fit" and his contributions. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Rod Brind'Amour touted his all-situations versatility and called the extension an "easy decision". I think it's safe to say that all parties are pretty happy.

Bussi sports a new mask as the Hurricanes return to the ice

Tuesday marked the first time that the Hurricanes were back on the ice after completing their sweep of the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday night. All 24 players were present for the group, meaning everyone seemed to be healthy and in one piece after their short hiatus. This included all three goalies.

After practice, the media got its first look at Brandon Bussi's new mask. Like his old one, the mask has incredible meaning to Bussi, whose work in raising autism awareness became a big story this season. It's unclear whether we'll get to see the mask in action with how well Frederik Andersen is playing, but it's a nice update to his headware.

Cerrato, Carolina agree to an entry-level contract

In the spirit of signing new contracts, the Hurricanes formalized an agreement with 2025 second-round pick Charlie Cerrato. In two seasons at Penn State, Cerrato finished with 69 points in 61 games. He was rolling through his sophomore season until an injury cost him considerable time. He returned in time for the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments before signing an ATO with the Chicago Wolves.

Cerrato, 21, signed his three-year contract on Tuesday, which begins this season. He made his professional debut in Game 1 of the Wolves' series with Texas before being scratched for the remainder. With Jankowski re-signing as well, it's unlikely that Cerrato will challenge for an NHL roster spot next season, but it's a good addition for the Wolves.

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