Hurricanes Reward Eric Robinson’s Breakout Season with Four-Year, $6.8 Million Extension

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed forward Eric Robinson to a four-year, $6.8 million contract extension. This deal carries an annual cap hit of $1.7 million, as reported by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman. The extension marks a significant milestone in Robinson’s professional career, recognizing his recent contributions and potential value as a depth piece in the Hurricanes’ lineup.

Undrafted Forward Battles Through AHL, Earns NHL Spot With Relentless Work Ethic

Robinson’s path to the NHL was unconventional. After going undrafted, he eventually earned a chance with the Columbus Blue Jackets, signing an entry-level contract in 2018 following a productive collegiate career at Princeton. In his AHL rookie season (2018–19), he registered 24 points in 45 games, which led to a short, scoreless NHL stint. However, his work ethic and steady development positioned him for future opportunities.

Robinson continued to develop in the AHL and was soon promoted to Columbus’s NHL roster during the 2019–20 season. While his role was limited to fourth-line duties and his scoring modest, he managed to carve out a niche as a reliable, hardworking forward. His best seasons came in 2021–22 and 2022–23, when he put up 27 and 24 points, respectively, though he never fully cemented a long-term role in Columbus.

Robinson’s Breakout Year in Carolina Earns Him Long-Term Deal and Recognition

In a midseason trade, Columbus sent Robinson to the Buffalo Sabres. Despite limited production (nine points in 40 games), he showed enough promise to catch the attention of Carolina’s new general manager, Eric Tulsky. The Hurricanes signed him to a one-year, $950,000 deal last summer, which would turn out to be a bargain based on his breakout performance.

Robinson took full advantage of his opportunity in Carolina, appearing in all 82 games and tallying 14 goals and 32 points. His performance as a dependable bottom-six forward contributed meaningfully to the Hurricanes’ success, proving his value as a cost-effective asset. The new four-year deal is a testament to his perseverance and impact, securing his future in the NHL through the 2028–29 season.