In a move that’s sure to spark debate among hockey fans, the Carolina Hurricanes have reclaimed goaltender Cayden Primeau off waivers, just weeks after he was picked up by the Toronto Maple Leafs. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a strategic re-acquisition or a sign of desperation in the crease? Let’s dive into the details.
Announced today by Hurricanes General Manager Eric Tulsky, the team has brought Primeau back into the fold, assigning him to the Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League (AHL). This decision comes alongside the activation of forwards Eric Robinson and William Carrier from injured reserve, adding depth to the Hurricanes’ roster. Primeau, 26, whose father Keith Primeau once captained the Hurricanes, had a brief stint with the Maple Leafs after being claimed from Carolina on October 6. During his time in Toronto, he posted a 2-1-0 record with a 4.30 goals-against average (GAA) in three games.
And this is the part most people miss: Primeau’s journey has been a rollercoaster. Originally acquired by the Hurricanes from the Montreal Canadiens on June 30 in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, his performance has been a mix of highs and lows. In the 2024-25 season with Montreal, he struggled with a 2-3-1 record, a 4.70 GAA, and an .836 save percentage in 11 games. However, his time in the AHL with the Laval Rocket was stellar, earning him the 2025 Harry Holmes Memorial Award for best goaltending duo alongside Connor Hughes. With a 21-2-3 record, 1.96 GAA, and .927 save percentage in 26 games, Primeau proved his potential in the minors.
Standing at 6’3” and weighing 205 pounds, Primeau has the physical presence to dominate the net. Drafted 199th overall by the Canadiens in 2017, he’s appeared in 58 NHL games with Montreal and Toronto, compiling a 15-25-7 record, 3.73 GAA, .882 save percentage, and two shutouts. His AHL career is even more impressive, with an 84-44-18 record, 2.60 GAA, .912 save percentage, and 13 shutouts in 149 games.
Here’s the bold question: Can Primeau find consistency in the NHL, or will he remain a dominant AHL force? The Hurricanes’ decision to re-acquire him suggests they see untapped potential, but only time will tell if this move pays off. What do you think? Is this a smart gamble, or a risky play? Let us know in the comments!
