Hurricanes shake up roster with key forward return, defenseman re-signed ahead of pivotal NHL season

Carolina Hurricanes are making calculated moves as they prepare for the 2025-26 NHL season. General manager Eric Tulsky confirmed on Monday that the team has re-signed forward Ryan Suzuki and defenseman Ronan Seeley to one-year, two-way contracts. These signings highlight Carolina’s commitment to reinforcing organizational depth as the team aims for sustained success.

Ryan Suzuki, drafted 28th overall in 2019, has spent most of his professional career developing in the American Hockey League with the Chicago Wolves. Though his NHL experience remains limited, the Hurricanes are banking on his offensive upside and progression as he aims to carve out a more consistent role at the NHL level.

Meanwhile, Ronan Seeley, a seventh-round pick in 2020, has shown steady improvement in his third full AHL season. By bringing both players back, the Hurricanes maintain key internal options who can be called upon as the club navigates injuries and roster decisions during the season.

Ryan Suzuki looks to build on career-best AHL campaign

Suzuki’s new contract carries an NHL cap hit of $775,000 and a minor-league salary of $130,000, with a guarantee of $175,000. The London, Ontario native delivered his best statistical season in 2024-25, scoring 12 goals and setting career highs with 47 assists and 59 points in 69 games with the Wolves.

Ronan Seeley returns after full season with Chicago Wolves

Seeley’s fresh one-year deal comes with an NHL salary of $813,750 and an AHL cap hit of $80,000. The Yellowknife native appeared in 69 games last season, tallying 3 goals and 7 assists. Although his production dipped slightly from his rookie season, Seeley’s consistent presence in the Wolves’ lineup underscores Carolina’s confidence in his continued development as a dependable defensive option.

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