Blake’s Game-Changing $45 Million Deal with Hurricanes: What This Means for the NHL!

Jackson Blake just inked a hefty eight-year deal with the Carolina Hurricanes, locking in $45 million starting from the 2026-27 season—quite a statement for a kid who’s only just getting warmed up. Turning 22 this August, Blake’s rookie campaign wasn’t shy either: 34 points in 80 games and a clutch presence in the playoffs with six points across 15 games. He’s cruising into the final year of his entry-level contract, poised to avoid restricted free agency drama, thanks to this big move. Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky thinks Blake’s barely scratching the surface of his potential—a sentiment I’m inclined to agree with after watching his tenacious, all-in style on the ice. Drafted in the fourth round back in 2021, Blake’s journey is just revving up, and honestly, it feels like Carolina’s betting on a future star who could light up the league for years to come. LEARN MORE.

Jackson Blake signed an eight-year, $45 million contract with the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday. The contract, which has an average annual value of $5.625 million, will begin with the 2026-27 season.

Blake, who will turn 22 on Aug. 3, had 34 points (17 goals, 17 assists) in 80 regular-season games as a rookie last season. The forward then had six points (three goals, three assists) in 15 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

Blake, who is entering the final season of the three-year, entry-level contract he signed with Carolina on April 10, 2024, could have become a restricted free agent after this season.

“Jackson had an outstanding rookie season, and we think he is just scratching the surface of the player he can be,” Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky said. “His tenaciousness on the puck and competitiveness match our team’s culture and we’re excited about his future with our club.”

Blake was selected by Carolina in the fourth round (No. 109) of the 2021 NHL Draft.