As the Carolina Hurricanes gear up for the 2025-2026 season, one of the key storylines emerging from training camp is the evolving mindset of forward Jackson Blake. Fresh off a rookie season where he tallied 17 goals and 34 points, Blake is determined to elevate his game and make an even greater impact.
Blake's journey to the NHL began when the Hurricanes drafted him in the fourth round of the 2021 NHL Draft. He then signed his entry-level contract with the Hurricanes in April 2024 and joined them for the brief remainder of the regular season. After two seasons at the University of North Dakota, Blake made Carolina's roster out of training camp last season.
Now, with a full season of NHL experience under his belt, Blake is setting his sights higher than simply making the team. "My mindset is a little different," he stated. "I don't want to just make the team. I want to be a better version of myself from last year and take another step". He recognizes the need to improve offensively while maintaining his focus on the two-way game that is crucial to the Hurricanes' success.
A significant weight has been lifted off Blake's shoulders with the recent signing of an eight-year, $45 million contract extension with the Hurricanes. The deal, which begins in the 2026-27 season and runs through 2033-34, provides Blake with long-term security and solidifies his place in the organization's future. The contract carries an average annual value of $5.625 million. However, the actual cap hit of the contract will fall in the $5.1MM range due to deferred compensation.
"It's very relieving, I would say," Blake commented on the extension. "The game is the game, and you got to strive to be the best no matter if you have a deal or not. But I think having this deal kind of gives me a little bit more of a kind of reassurance and belief in playing. Still going to try to be the best I can be, but it gives me a little more confidence and to do the things that I think I can do".
Hurricanes General Manager Eric Tulsky expressed the organization's excitement about Blake's future, noting his outstanding rookie season and tenaciousness on the puck. "Jackson had an outstanding rookie season, and we think he is just scratching the surface of the player he can be," Tulsky said. "His tenaciousness on the puck and competitiveness match our team's culture and we're excited about his future with our club".
Blake's journey to becoming a key player for the Hurricanes has been marked by adaptability and a willingness to learn. Last season, he started on the fourth line but eventually earned top-line minutes alongside Sebastian Aho during the regular season and playoffs. Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour has been credited with bringing Blake along slowly, allowing him to develop and gain confidence.
As Blake enters his second season, he is focused on building upon his rookie success and contributing even more to the team's success. With his long-term future secured, Blake can focus on honing his skills and becoming an integral part of the Hurricanes' core for years to come.
