Hurricanes sign Mike Reilly to bolster defensive depth
The Carolina Hurricanes have signed defenseman Mike Reilly to a one-year, two-way contract valued at league minimum.
Quick answers
What contract has Mike Reilly signed with the Hurricanes?
Mike Reilly has signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Carolina Hurricanes. The contract is valued at $850,000 if he plays in the NHL and $450,000 if he plays in the AHL.
How did Mike Reilly perform during his last season with the Hurricanes?
During the last season, Mike Reilly played 42 regular-season games for the Hurricanes, registering one goal and eight assists for nine points. He contributed two assists in two playoff games as well.
Hurricanes sign Mike Reilly to bolster defensive depth
The Carolina Hurricanes have signed veteran defenseman Mike Reilly to a one-year, two-way contract. The deal provides Reilly with $850,000 at the NHL level and $450,000 if he plays in the AHL.
Performance and playoff contributions
At 33 years old, Reilly has nearly 500 games of NHL experience. Last season, he played primarily as the No. 7 defenseman for Carolina. He suited up for 42 regular-season games, averaging 14:57 of ice time per game.
Reilly’s role included significant contributions to the penalty kill. He averaged nearly one minute of short-handed ice time across the season. In the playoffs, he made an impact by recording two assists in two games.
Contract and team implications
Reilly’s signing is a strategic move to enhance the Hurricanes’ defensive unit. His new salary of $850,000 marks a decrease from the $1.1 million he earned last season. This signing indicates Carolina’s investment in solidifying their depth.
Reilly holds the highest AHL salary among the Hurricanes’ two-way contracts. His addition promotes competition for the seventh defenseman role, facing challengers like Pierre-Olivier Joseph and Juuso Valimaki.
Future considerations regarding restricted free agents
The signing of Reilly brings attention to the status of restricted free agent Alexander Nikishin. Following a strong rookie campaign, Nikishin remains unsigned. Reports suggest potential trade discussions involving Nikishin.
The Hurricanes boast a solid blue line, featuring established players such as Jaccob Slavin and K’Andre Miller. This depth positions the team favorably as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Carolina will begin the 2026-27 season on September 29 with a game against the Florida Panthers, where they will raise the Stanley Cup banner.
For related context, see NHL trade coverage.
Reporting for this story draws on Pro Hockey Rumors, Daily Faceoff.
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