Veteran goaltender Cam Ward is heading to unrestricted free agency this summer but the 32-year-old is hopeful he can remain with the Carolina Hurricanes - with whom he has spent the first 11 years of his NHL career.

"I want to stay because I want to stay, but also because I believe in the group we have here, and where this organization is going," Ward said of his future, according to Michelle McMahon of Fox Sports. He also praised the team's young defensemen as a reason to stay in Raleigh.

"I can't say enough good things. Usually there's one rookie, but to have three, that's not normal, and they are the real deal."

Rookies Noah Hanifin, Jaccob Slavin, and Brett Pesce each appeared in at least 63 games this season - and look to make up a solid defense corps for the future behind All-Star Justin Faulk.

Ward, a Conn Smythe winner after the Hurricanes' 2006 Cup win in his rookie season, posted a 23-17-10 record in 52 appearances this season.

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