Carolina Hurricanes plan to buyout goaltender Scott Darling
According to a recent report, it appears the Carolina Hurricanes are prepared to part ways with goaltender Scott Darling.
The Carolina Hurricanes needed goaltending back in 2017. They executed a trade for the rights to Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Scott Darling and proceeded to sign him to a four-year deal worth $16.6 million. However, he has never been a fit in Carolina. According to the latest rumors from The Fourth Period, the Canes are prepared to buy out the remaining two years of his deal.
Darling hasn’t been the starting goalie Carolina thought he would be. He posted a .887 save percentage in 51 appearances, far below his .923 save percentage in three seasons with the Blackhawks.
The Math
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They say nothing in life is free. Yes, this includes buying out NHL players. Darling’s deal isn’t too complicated since he has no signing bonuses. They will save over $2.3 million from his initial $7.1 million price tag. However, his cap hit will be spread out over four years instead of two.
As we all know, the NHL enjoys making things more complicated than necessary. So naturally, his cap hit is different in each season even though his actual cost will be $1.183333 million each season. Let’s take a look at the savings, courtesy of our pals at CapFriendly.
- 2019-20: $2,916,917
- 2020-21: $1,816,667
- 2021-22: -$1,183,333
- 2022-23: -$1,183,333
In case you stink at math like me, just remember the negative signs are bad. That’s what it will cost the Hurricanes as far as cap space. A reunion won’t be happening, but the NHL rules dictate Carolina isn’t allowed to re-sign Darling for a year if they buy him out.
What Does It Mean For The Hurricanes?
This is mostly about creating a little bit more space for the Hurricanes. It’ll be curious to see how they use it. But this is a smart business decision for them. The Hurricanes don’t want to pay Darling $4 million a year just to play in the AHL and make a start or two in the NHL.
Darling’s Future
Could this be the end of the line for Darling’s career? He inspired many with his battles against alcoholism. Darling’s NHL resume could lead to some job offers in the AHL, in hopes that he can figure out his game again. Because darn was he good in Chicago.
Next. Hurricanes Offseason Outlook. dark
Retirement could come next for Darling. It’s worth noting he took a leave of absence from the Hurricanes back in February. Darling has a bright future ahead of him, regardless of he decides to continue his on-ice career or continue to inspire others.