Defenseman Pierre-Olivier Joseph signed a one-year contract with the Carolina Hurricanes carrying an $850,000 cap hit for the upcoming season, according to an announcement by General Manager Eric Tulsky. The 27-year-old blueliner joins the defending Stanley Cup champions after appearing in 31 games for the Vancouver Canucks during the previous campaign, where he tallied one goal and five assists.
Contract Terms and Career Path for Pierre-Olivier Joseph
According to team announcements, Joseph brings 225 games of NHL experience across stints with the Pittsburgh Penguins, St. Louis Blues, and Vancouver Canucks, accumulating 46 total points built on nine goals and 37 assists. His previous season in Vancouver included stints on injured reserve due to an October groin injury alongside frequent healthy scratches, limiting his average ice time to just over 13 minutes.
AHL Development and Early Draft Pedigree
Before establishing himself as a regular professional depth option, the Laval, Quebec native developed in the American Hockey League with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Team records show Joseph recorded 64 points across 138 AHL games between 2019 and 2023. His standout 2021-22 AHL campaign featured 10 goals and 23 assists, leading club defensemen in goals while finishing second in points and third in assists.
https://x.com/Canucks/status/2019272967704952881
The Arizona Coyotes originally selected Joseph in the first round, 23rd overall, at the 2017 NHL Draft, according to franchise records. Before making his professional debut, Arizona traded him to Pittsburgh in the deal that sent forward Phil Kessel to the Coyotes.
Journeyman Trajectory Across Multiple Franchises
Joseph has worn several sweaters since turning professional. After spending the 2022-23 season entirely in Pittsburgh—where he logged 21 points in 75 games averaging just over 15 minutes of ice time—he signed a one-year contract with the St. Louis Blues as an unrestricted free agent following the 2023-24 season. After 23 games in St. Louis without a goal and with two assists, he was dealt back to Pittsburgh for future considerations before finishing that stint and eventually signing with Vancouver.
Did You Know? Pierre-Olivier Joseph is the brother of Edmonton Oilers forward Mathieu Joseph, keeping hockey ties strong in the family. Internationally, the Hurricanes’ new blueliner also helped Canada capture a gold medal at the 2023 IIHF World Championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cap hit for Pierre-Olivier Joseph’s contract with the Carolina Hurricanes?
According to team announcements, the one-year contract carries a cap hit of $850,000 for the upcoming season.
Which NHL teams has Pierre-Olivier Joseph played for?
Team and league records show Joseph has played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, St. Louis Blues, Vancouver Canucks, and now the Carolina Hurricanes, after originally being drafted by the Arizona Coyotes.
What are Joseph’s career NHL totals?
He has recorded 46 points, consisting of nine goals and 37 assists, across 225 career regular-season NHL games.
What do you think of this depth signing for Carolina’s defense? Join the conversation below and share your thoughts in the comments.
Related reading