Report: Hurricanes say Jordan Staal trade rumors are unfounded

The Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly trying to downplay trade speculation surrounding Jordan Staal.

The team is calling rumors about Staal unfounded, according to TSN's Aaron Ward. Previous reports suggested Staal was open to returning to the Pittsburgh Penguins and that the Penguins were asking Carolina what it would take to re-acquire him.

Whether or not there is any substance to the rumors, Staal isn't likely to be moved at the trade deadline because of his massive contract term and $6-million cap hit.