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Carolina Hurricanes Sign Second-Round Pick to Entry-Level Contract

The Carolina Hurricanes second-round selection in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, Dominik Badinka, signs his NHL entry-level contract (ELC), a three-year deal. This move underscores General Manager Eric Tulsky’s commitment to developing young talent and bolstering the team’s defensive depth for future success. The signing of Badinka is part of the Hurricanes’ broader strategy to cultivate a strong prospect pool and ensure long-term competitiveness.

The Carolina Hurricanes Dominik Badinka Signs his ELC

Dominik Badinka was selected 34th overall by the Hurricanes in the 2024 NHL Draft. He has been a promising defenceman in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) with the Malmö Redhawks. Known for his impressive mobility, hockey IQ, and defensive acumen, Badinka has shown the potential to become a valuable professional defenceman. Last season, he recorded one goal and three assists for four points in 33 SHL games. Additionally, he added two goals and 11 assists in 17 games with Malmö’s junior team​.

Badinka will spend some time developing further before making his NHL debut. However, his entry-level contract marks a significant step in his career and the Hurricanes’ investment in his growth and success.

Hurricanes Team Outlook Moving Forward

With the addition of Badinka, the Hurricanes’ prospect pool is increasingly formidable. He joins a talented group of young players, including Seth Jarvis, Bradly Nadeau, and Scott Morrow. GM Eric Tulsky emphasizes drafting and developing young talent to maintain the Hurricanes’ competitive edge in the NHL​.

Carolina’s focus on building a robust foundation through the draft and including diligent player development, bodes well for their future. Tulsky aims to continue to establish the Hurricanes as a consistent contender in the league. Many key pieces such as Brady Skjei and Brett Pesce were lost. However, moves like this ensures the Hurricanes stay contenders in the future when other players depart as well. With stars like Andrei Svechnikov and Sebastian Aho already making a significant impact, the signing of Badinka may be a vital piece of the puzzle in Carolina. This addition underscores the Hurricanes’ commitment to developing a strong, young core, and Badinka’s progress will play a crucial role in achieving the team’s long-term objectives​.

Main photo credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

Rohit Bhamra

Rohit Bhamra

Rohit is a Business Communications graduate from Brock University. He's been watching and following the NHL since 2012. Although he is from Toronto, his favourite team has always been the Pittsburgh Penguins.

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