LA Kings: Three defenders on Carolina Hurricanes to target in trades
By Ryan Sikes
2. Jake Bean
Bean was drafted 13th overall in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft and saw two NHL games last season. Transitioning into a regular along the blue line in 2021, the 22-year-old has one goal and nine points in 16 games. The Calgary, Alberta native put up some big numbers with Carolina’s AHL affiliate over the last two seasons.
Bean posted a combined 23 goals with 69 assists in 129 games while tallying one goal and five points in the playoffs at the end of the 18-19 season. Here’s his scouting report, courtesy of Elite Prospects.
"An excellent skater who is a good puck-carrier up the ice. Makes very good decisions with and without the puck, and plays strong positionally. Works hard and doesn’t give the opposition much to work with, but could stand to be a bit more assertive during high pressure situations."
Bean is already seeing time on the second power play unit, which is a testament to how much Rod Brind’Amour trusts in the 22-year-old while Jake Gardiner deals with lingering back issues. Bean is in the final year of his entry-level contract and will be a restricted free agent at season’s end.