Erie’s Jaccob Slavin gets big deal to stay with NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes – Boulder Daily Camera

Carolina Hurricanes’ Jaccob Slavin (74) clears Calgary Flames’ Rasmus Andersson (4) of the puck in front of Hurricanes goaltender Frederik Andersen (31) during the third period of an NHL hockey game in Raleigh, N.C., Sunday, March 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Karl B DeBlaker)

Jaccob Slavin, an Erie High School graduate who has emerged as an elite defenseman in the National Hockey League over the past decade, is taking advantage of this.

Last week, the 30-year-old agreed to an eight-year, $51.69 million contract to remain with the Carolina Hurricanes, the only franchise he has played for in his nine-year professional career. He is entering the final season of a seven-year, $37.1 million contract.

“Jaccob is arguably the best defenceman in the NHL, and he has already established himself as one of the best players to ever wear a Hurricanes uniform,” Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky told reporters after the July 1 signing. “He is a critical leader for our team both on and off the ice, and keeping him in Carolina long-term was a top priority.”

In high school, Slavin played for a few club programs in the state, including the Hyland Hills Jaguars, the Littleton Hawks and the Colorado Thunderbirds. He was drafted in the fourth round by the Hurricanes in 2012, but played two years at Colorado College before entering the NHL.

“We’ve definitely built a life here, built a family,” Slavin said. “We’re just so happy to be here, and now with the length of this deal, to be here my entire career. Obviously, I love this organization and I love this city, the coaching staff, the management, everything.”

Slavin, a devout Christian and known as a nice guy around the league, is a two-time winner of the NHL’s Lady Byng Trophy, given to the player the league deems to best “combine sportsmanship, courtesy and talent.” He was an All-Star in 2020.

He has helped the Hurricanes reach the postseason every season since 2018. The Canes have reached the second round five times in the past six seasons, and most recently reached the Eastern Conference finals in 2022-23.

In 665 games played, Slavin scored 49 goals, 223 assists and only 86 penalty minutes.