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.