Marc-Andre Gragnani Signs with Carolina

Young defenseman Marc-Andre Gragnani signed a one-year, two-way deal with Carolina. This is obviously a make-good deal for Gragnani who has apparently struggled in his limited time in the NHL. However, if he works hard there could be a place for him in the NHL. I wouldn't use a draft pick on Gragnani this year, but would keep a close eye on him as a potential waiver move.

In my personal opinion he has struggled early at every level. With .39 points per game in the QMJHL and the AHL. However, after 200 games in both leagues he found himself with a .73 points per game average over that time. After 73 games, and never more than 58 in a single season I believe it is too early to write this player off.

It is too bad that he didn't end up in a better scenario. The biggest obstacle for him will be earning minutes against Pitkanen, Faulk, McBain, Corvo, Gleason and Harrison on the Carolina blueline.