Colorado Avalanche Rumors: Analyzing Carolina Hurricanes as Trade Partners

Haydn Fleury

Haydn Fleury is another high draft pick — seventh overall — of the Carolina Hurricanes, and his future is bright as well.

He doesn’t have the same upside as Hanifin, but he certainly possesses the necessary intangibles to develop into a real good defenseman.

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He’s 6’3″, 220 pounds and has offensive upside. However, he’s either been given some more time to develop, or is taking a little longer to develop.

Granted, he is only 20 years old, so it’s not like his time has passed by any means. Defensemen take longer to develop anyway, and Fleury is going to be a real good defenseman one day.

I had to go a bit off the board for this talent analysis, but it seems like a good description of the kid:

"A brilliant skater, Fleury has the footwork necessary to make it in today’s NHL. After a tough season last year, he has rebounded nicely, coming to camp stronger and has been the most important part of the [Charlotte] Checkers’ blueline. He’s an offensive d-man, who has been a minute-muncher at every level. With the focus shifted to his defensive play, he projects to be a No.2/3 D-man who will be an effective part of special teams. His offensive flair will see him run a PP unit in Carolina, and his ability to skate and close down opponents fits right into the ‘Canes’ PK."

I certainly wouldn’t mind a trade for Fleury, but the Avs should expect more than just Fleury if they do make a trade involving his name.

Time to look at one more defenseman on the Hurricanes.