The Carolina Hurricanes announced today that they have returned 2017 first-round pick Martin Necas to HC Kometa Brno of the Czech Extraliga, the top professional league in the Czech Republic. The 18-year-old center was allowed to play nine games with the NHL club before the team would have to decide whether to burn his first year of his entry-level contract. However, Necas has been returned after playing just one game for the Hurricanes.
Having played in six of the team’s preseason games, a few were surprised when Necas made the team, a team hoping to make the playoffs this year. However, the youngster’s raw skill was evident and the team hoped to capitalize on that. The Hurricanes also had the option of sending Necas to Charlotte of the AHL, but he has said on several occasions he would prefer to return home to play with his old team, if given the option.
The 12th overall pick in this year’s draft, Necas made his NHL debut on Oct. 17 against the Edmonton Oilers, but didn’t register a point in less than seven minutes of ice time. He has been scratched in all the other games. Returning to his team in Brno, Necas put up seven goals and eight assists in 41 games there last year. He also scored four goals in 10 playoff games as well.
The move also gives Carolina some maneuvering room for the future. Prior to loaning Necas to the Czech Extraliga, the Hurricanes had 50 contracts, the maximum you can have. Now, the team has 49, according to CapFriendly.
The kid was really impressive in the preseason….he just needs to play and hit the weight room!