In a crucial Game 5 matchup, the Carolina Hurricanes will face the New Jersey Devils without their starting goaltender, Frederik Andersen, sidelined due to an upper-body injury sustained in Game 4. Young netminder Pyotr Kochetkov is set to step in for his first playoff start this year. Coach Rod Brind'Amour confirmed Andersen's status as day-to-day, emphasizing the team’s confidence in Kochetkov, who has posted solid numbers during the regular season.

Kochetkov's performance will be pivotal for a Hurricanes team that struggled towards the end of the regular season, losing seven of their last eight games. However, he has shown resilience, winning five consecutive starts earlier in the season. As the Hurricanes look to clinch the series, Kochetkov’s ability to maintain composure and deliver under pressure will be critical.

The Carolina Hurricanes are set to face the New Jersey Devils in Game 5 of their playoff series without goaltender Frederik Andersen, who is sidelined due to an upper-body injury sustained in Game 4. This opens the door for 25-year-old Pyotr Kochetkov to make his postseason debut. Coach Rod Brind'Amour confirmed Andersen's injury status, stating he is day-to-day. Andersen has been a pivotal player, posting a 1.59 goals-against average and .936 save percentage over the first four games. Kochetkov, who has had a rocky finish to the regular season, will need to step up after allowing an early goal in his last appearance but has shown resilience in bouncing back from tough starts.

The Hurricanes have emphasized a dual-goalie approach throughout the season, and Kochetkov's experience from starting 47 games this past year may prove beneficial. Despite a tough stretch at the end of the regular season, he had a strong showing earlier in the year where he won five straight starts. Brind'Amour believes in Kochetkov's ability, suggesting that the team might have considered starting him even without Andersen's injury. With the series on the line, Kochetkov is tasked with maintaining the Hurricanes' momentum as they aim for playoff advancement.

The Minnesota Wild are on the verge of signing defenseman Zeev Buium to an entry-level contract, likely allowing him to hit the ice for practice this Monday. Buium could make his NHL debut as early as Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes aim to expedite Alexander Nikishin's visa process, hoping to integrate him into their lineup against Montreal and Ottawa this week. Should visa issues arise, the Hurricanes could opt to send him to their AHL affiliate in Chicago. Additionally, the Tampa Bay Lightning face a dilemma with top prospect Isaac Howard, who has decided to return to Michigan State instead of signing an entry-level contract. The Lightning may need to consider trading his rights ahead of the deadline to prevent losing him to free agency in 2026.

The Carolina Hurricanes showcased a dominant performance against the Philadelphia Flyers, winning 5-0 and extending their winning streak to seven games. Pyotr Kochetkov was stellar in goal, recording 26 saves to earn a shutout. Mark Jankowski played a pivotal role, scoring twice and contributing significantly to the offense. Sebastian Aho opened the scoring early, setting the tone for the game. Despite a promising start to their homestand, the Flyers were left demoralized with only one win out of seven games.

Flyers' coach John Tortorella expressed frustration over his team's inability to capitalize on opportunities, as they struggled to find the back of the net. The Hurricanes’ collective effort and Jankowski's integration into the team were highlighted, signifying their high morale and teamwork.

Jesperi Kotkaniemi's two-goal performance led the Carolina Hurricanes to a 2-1 victory over the Dallas Stars, sealing a successful back-to-back road trip. Kotkaniemi's second goal came just 24 seconds after the Stars had tied the game in the third period, showcasing his timely scoring ability. The Hurricanes also benefited from strong goaltending by Pyotr Kochetkov, who made 22 saves, contributing to Carolina's impressive record when leading after two periods. The Stars, meanwhile, saw their season-long seven-game winning streak end, with Jake Oettinger stopping 17 shots.

Kotkaniemi's goals mark a return to form, as he had previously gone nine games without finding the net. His recent scoring surge is complemented by Martin Necas, who continued to excel with two assists, bringing his season total to 54 points in 48 games. Coach Rod Brind'Amour celebrated his 500th game behind the bench for the Hurricanes, further solidifying the team's strong performance under his leadership.