As the Carolina Hurricanes prepare for their upcoming match against the San Jose Sharks on October 14, significant changes in the lineup are set to occur. Notably, goaltender Brandon Bussi will make his NHL debut, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Brandon Bussi’s NHL Debut

Brandon Bussi, aged 27, will take on the starting role after an impressive stint in the American Hockey League. He has played 111 games at the AHL level and gained recognition as a 2023 All-Star. Bussi was claimed off waivers by the Hurricanes on October 5, stepping in as Pyotr Kochetkov is sidelined due to a lower-body injury.

Key Injuries Affecting the Team

Pyotr Kochetkov: Lower-body injury, out until at least October 18.
Jaccob Slavin: Lower-body injury, no definitive return date.

Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour provided an update on Slavin’s condition, stating that further tests were being conducted and that while the injury isn’t serious, the team will proceed cautiously.

New Additions and Lineup Changes

In addition to Bussi, the Hurricanes have welcomed defenseman Mike Reilly, who is expected to play his first game with the team. Reilly, who signed as a free agent on July 1, will help fill the void left by Slavin during the team’s six-game road trip.

Recent roster adjustments include recalling Charles Alexis Legault from the Chicago Wolves, adding depth to the lineup. Mark Jankowski is anticipated to make his season debut as well, playing alongside Eric Robinson and Taylor Hall. Jesperi Kotkaniemi is likely to be scratched to accommodate these changes.

Projected Lineup Against San Jose

Forwards
Defense
Goaltender

Ehlers – Aho – Jarvis
Miller – Walker
Bussi [Backup: Andersen]

Svechnikov – Stankoven – Blake
Nikishin – Gostisbehere

Martinook – Staal – Carrier
Reilly – Chatfield

Robinson – Jankowski – Hall

Power Play Units

PP1: Aho, Ehlers, Jarvis, Svechnikov with Gostisbehere
PP2: Blake, Hall, Stankoven with Miller and Walker

With these adjustments, the Hurricanes aim to maintain momentum against the Sharks. All eyes will be on Bussi as he steps into the spotlight for his debut.