The Carolina Hurricanes have signed forward Givani Smith to a one-year, two-way contract for the 2025-26 season. The deal, announced Friday by Hurricanes General Manager Eric Tulsky, will see Smith earn $775,000 at the NHL level or $140,000 in the American Hockey League (AHL), with a guaranteed minimum of $250,000.
Smith, 27, earned the contract after attending the Hurricanes' training camp on a professional tryout (PTO). He impressed the coaching staff and management with his performance during the preseason, showcasing the size and physicality that Tulsky believes will add valuable depth to the forward group. In four preseason games, Smith tallied two goals and one assist, while also racking up a team-high 28 penalty minutes. His willingness to engage physically was evident, as he participated in two fights during the first two preseason games and received a 10-minute misconduct in another.
"Givani came to camp as a PTO and proved that he deserved a role in the organization," Tulsky said in a release. "His size and physicality make him a good fit to add depth to our forward group."
Born on February 27, 1998, the Toronto native has journeyed through several NHL organizations throughout his career. Drafted 46th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2016 NHL Draft, Smith has played for the Red Wings, Florida Panthers, San Jose Sharks, and Colorado Avalanche. He split the 2024-25 season between the Sharks and Avalanche, also spending time in the AHL with the Colorado Eagles and Lehigh Valley Phantoms. Smith was then traded to the Philadelphia Flyers for Erik Johnson on March 7, 2025.
Smith's NHL career spans 168 games, where he has accumulated nine goals and 13 assists for 22 points, along with 268 penalty minutes. He has also played 178 AHL games, recording 27 goals and 30 assists for 57 points, and 287 penalty minutes.
Smith's signing addresses a need for the Hurricanes, who have been seeking to add more grit and a "don't mess with my guys" mentality to their roster. He is known for standing up for his teammates and brings a unique physical dimension that the team's other depth options lack. His willingness to drop the gloves and provide protection for younger players could be a valuable asset, especially in a division known for its toughness.
While it remains to be seen whether Smith will be in the Hurricanes' opening night lineup, his performance during the preseason has positioned him as a strong contender for a roster spot. Even if he starts the season in the AHL with the Chicago Wolves, he will provide valuable depth and a physical presence that the Hurricanes can call upon when needed. Smith's experience and willingness to play a role, combined with his improved skating and playmaking abilities, make him a valuable addition to the Hurricanes organization.
