As the Caniacs were tucking themselves into bed on Thursday night, the Carolina Hurricanes dropped a late-night bomb by announcing another long-term extension, this time giving a homegrown talent a big contract. After a successful rookie campaign, featuring postseason success, the team is anticipating big things for Jackson Blake.
The team announced an eight-year, $45 million ($5.625m AAV) extension for Blake that is set to kick in at the beginning of the 2026-27 season. Blake, who played his first full season in the NHL last season, had one year remaining on his rookie deal before becoming a restricted free agent. Instead, the team has crossed another player off their list for next offseason.
An important note about his contract is that Blake's deal includes deferred money, so his hit will really be around $5.1 million. The new CBA, which is set to kick in next summer as well, outlaws deferred money in new contracts. Getting it done now allows the Canes to include it while freeing up money in subsequent offseasons.
The news comes almost a month after fellow rookie Logan Stankoven was locked in for eight years. Like Blake, Stankoven had one year left before becoming an RFA. Now, neither will reach free agency until after the 2033-34 season. This also leaves just four pending UFAs and one RFA for the team to handle next offseason.
The son of 13-year veteran Jason Blake, Jackson cracked the team's Opening Night roster after making his NHL debut in the season finale the season prior. Blake notched his first NHL goal in his third career game, redirecting a shot past Jacob Markstrom on October 15th to seal a 4-2 victory over the Devils, the Canes' first win of the season.
Blake's rookie campaign wasn't without its trials and tribulations as he adjusted to the NHL. He withstood long stretches without scoring, but his motor was present every night. Blake completed the season with 17 goals, 17 assists, and 34 points, finishing in the Top 10 for rookies in all three categories. He was hot down the stretch, scoring six goals and 12 points in the last 14 games.
His strong finish carried into the postseason against the New Jersey Devils. Blake recorded four points in the team's five-game series victory in the first round, scoring his first postseason goal during the team's comeback victory in Game 5. Blake finished second to Stankoven in rookie scoring during the postseason with three goals and six points.
After a Top 10 finish in Calder Trophy voting, this feels like a well-earned deal for Blake. He's a versatile player who fits almost anywhere in the lineup. His contract situation allows the upcoming season to be another chance to grow before expectations ramp up when the extension kicks in. The team can find where he fits best and use that moving forward.
This bit of business gives the Hurricanes nine players under contract into the 2030s. Eric Tulsky and the front office feel Jackson Blake is going to be a big piece of the core, which is awesome to see. The team is looking ahead, getting work done in advance and doing everything they can to extend their Stanley Cup window.