The Carolina Hurricanes have added defensive reinforcement with the signing of Caleb Jones to a one-year contract. The deal, worth $775,000, was announced by Don Waddell, the team’s President and General Manager. Waddell expressed his confidence in Jones, describing him as a reliable, two-way defenseman whose NHL experience will bolster the team’s defensive depth.
Jones, 26 years old, had an impressive season with the Chicago Blackhawks, recording 16 points (4 goals, 12 assists) in 73 NHL games. These numbers marked career highs for him in games played, assists, and points. Throughout his NHL career, Jones has accumulated 50 points (14 goals, 36 assists) in 217 games with both the Edmonton Oilers and Chicago Blackhawks.
Prior to his NHL stints, Jones spent time in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Bakersfield Condors, playing in 125 games and notching 57 points (11 goals, 46 assists) between 2016 and 2019. In addition, he had a successful junior career in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Portland Winterhawks, registering impressive numbers of 117 points (19 goals, 98 assists) in 135 games from 2015 to 2017. In his rookie season in the WHL, Jones led all rookies in assists with 45.
Jones has also represented the United States on the international stage, playing for the country’s National Team Development Program from 2013 to 2015. He showcased his talent and skills at the 2017 IIHF World Junior Championship, where he contributed to the team’s success in winning a gold medal.
The addition of Jones to the Hurricanes’ roster not only brings defensive skill and depth but also adds a family connection. Jones’ older brother, Seth, is a defenseman for the Chicago Blackhawks. Their father, Popeye, enjoyed a successful career in the NBA as a player and is currently an assistant coach for the Denver Nuggets.
The Carolina Hurricanes signing Caleb Jones is a strategic move that aims to strengthen the team’s defensive capabilities. With his NHL experience, Jones is expected to contribute positively to the Hurricanes’ defensive efforts. The team and its fans have high hopes for this addition, and they eagerly anticipate seeing Jones on the ice for the upcoming season.
