Former first-round pick among players to sign PTO deals with Hurricanes

Conacher, 33, signed a one-year deal on June 1, 2023, with the AHL’s lone independent franchise, the Chicago Wolves. The former AHL MVP is looking to secure an NHL contract for the first time since 2019-20. During the past few seasons, the forward has played in the National League for Lausanne HC, Bern SC, and Ambri-Piotta in Switzerland. Conacher also had brief AHL stints with the Belleville Senators and Charlotte Checkers in 2022-23 on PTOs.

The 5-foot-9 center has been one of the most accomplished scorers in the American Hockey League over the course of his career, notching 340 points in 371 games. With a total of 193 NHL games played, Conacher is looking to re-establish himself at the NHL level with the Hurricanes.

Perlini, 27, is currently an unrestricted free agent after spending last season with the Chicago Wolves in the AHL. The former 12^th overall pick in 2014 had 15 points in 26 games for the Wolves last season. In 262 career NHL games, Perlini has amassed 81 points while suiting up for the Coyotes, Blackhawks, Red Wings and Oilers.

Playing on a PTO, the veteran winger remains an unrestricted free agent and can sign with any team. However, he will get an opportunity to play some hockey games with the Hurricanes during the 2023 preseason as an audition for not only Carolina but other NHL organizations. Considering Perlini has spent most of his career as an NHL player aside from the past two seasons, it’s likely the forward is looking to make an impression in order to stick at the NHL level once again.

Carolina’s preseason outings begin on Sept. 26 at PNC Arena against the Tampa Bay Lightning.