Hurricanes and Sharks Finalize Minor Trade Deal
The San Jose Sharks and the Carolina Hurricanes have announced a trade involving defenseman Kyle Masters and a 2026 fourth-round pick. In return, the Sharks receive a fifth-round pick from the Blackhawks scheduled for 2027.
Trade Details and Implications
This deal is primarily focused on forward prospect Michael Misa. With Misa poised to play in his tenth game this season, the Sharks must register his contract. With a limit of 50 contracts, the Sharks needed to clear one to make room for Misa. Consequently, Kyle Masters, aged 22, is the player being let go.
About Kyle Masters
Kyle Masters was previously acquired by the Sharks earlier in the current season through a trade with the Minnesota Wild. He was selected as the 118th overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft. Currently, Masters is in the final year of his entry-level contract.
Despite holding an NHL contract, Masters has not made significant progress to join the top league. This season, he has played entirely with the ECHL’s Wichita Thunder, where he has recorded just three assists in ten games and boasts a -8 rating.
Statistical Overview
| Season | Team | Games Played | Goals | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-2024 | Wichita Thunder | 10 | 0 | 3 |
| 2022-2023 | Iowa Heartlanders | 27 | 5 | 13 |
| 2022-2023 | Iowa Wild | 16 | 0 | 3 |
Carolina Hurricanes’ Strategy
The Hurricanes’ rationale behind acquiring Masters is straightforward. With two available contract slots, they effectively upgrade their fifth-round pick to a fourth-round pick by securing an expiring contract. It is anticipated that Masters will continue to play in the ECHL, likely joining the Greensboro Gargoyles for the remainder of the season.
