"He's no Morgan Rielly, but maybe he has a chance": NHL fans debate Canes' $64M Brent Burns' Hockey Hall of Fame worthiness

Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Brent Burns has become a hot topic among NHL fans regarding his Hall of Fame prospects. He is on the last year of an eight-year contract that carries a cap hit of $8 million per season or $64 million in total.

NHL shared the post on X (formerly Twitter) stating,

"Inside the top 15 in all-time points by a defenseman... and counting! 📈 Will Brent Burns one day find himself in the @HockeyHallFame ?"

It highlighted his 881 career points, which places him #14 all-time among defensemen. The post also mentioned his Norris Trophy win in 2016-17.

Following this, NHL fans started reacting to the post on X. Many shared their opinions on Burns' Hall of Fame chances.

"He's no Morgan Reilly (sic), but maybe he has a chance," one fan said, referencing the Maple Leafs star.

"Almost certainly yes. Only one former Norris winner who is eligible for the HHOF has not been elected, that’s Randy Carlyle. Every other eligible Dman with a Norris is in the HHOF and Burns likely will be too," another fan commented.

"I like him a lot but sorry no!! He stills belong somewhere on an honor ring or rafters, but not HOF," one X user said.

Some fans see him as a strong candidate. Others are not so sure. Here are more reactions from NHL fans on X:

"No. If he won a Stanley Cup, then I would consider him in the @HockeyHallFame," a fan tweeted.

"It’s a tough one honestly. More an offensive defenseman but a great player. Has rotated from forward to defense, always was defenseman number 1 in his prime, noris, had some great runs…. I wouldn’t hate it but also don’t think he’s a lock by any means," a fan commented.

"I’ll just say this, if Shea Weber is a 1st ballot hall of famer, there’s no doubt, Brent Burns is as well. In my opinion, Brent Burns is overall a better player than Shea Weber was. So yes, he’s a HOF," a fan said.

Jaccob Slavin and Brent Burns will lead the Carolina Hurricanes’ defense in the 2024-25 season

Slavin is known for his calm play and strong defensive coverage. He brings stability and leadership to the team. Burns adds offensive power with his strong shots and ability to join the attack. His experience benefits the Hurricanes, especially on the power play.

Together, they form a balanced pair. Slavin focuses on defense while Burns contributes offensively.

In 2023-24, Burns had 43 points (10 goals, 33 assists) and a +19 rating. He has a career total of 255 goals and 626 assists over his 19-year career, most of it spent with the San Jose Sharks. Slavin scored 37 points (6 goals, 31 assists) and had a +21 rating. He focuses more on defense but contributes offensively too.