Here are the key storylines for the Carolina Hurricanes and their upcoming schedule for the week of Jan. 25 – Feb. 1, 2026.
Dominance in the Metro
The Hurricanes are currently sitting 1st in the Metropolitan Division with a 32-15-5 record (69 points). They are riding a 5-game point streak and coming off a decisive 4-1 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Saturday, where special teams played a huge role, going 4-for-4 on the penalty kill.
The Rise of the “Bus Driver”
Rookie goaltender Brandon Bussi has been a revelation. He made 34 saves in the win against Ottawa and now boasts a remarkable 19-3-1 record. His performance is generating serious buzz for the Vezina Trophy and has sparked conversations about a long-term contract extension, especially with Pyotr Kochetkov out for the season.
Aggressive Trade Rumors
With the trade deadline approaching, the Hurricanes are rumored to be “big game hunting.” They have been heavily linked to Vancouver Canucks superstar Elias Pettersson as they search for a high-end second-line center.
To make such a move work, center Jesperi Kotkaniemi is frequently mentioned as a trade piece due to his struggles to crack the top six. There are also murmurs that the Canes might be willing to part with rookie Alexander Nikishin if it guarantees a star like Pettersson or Jason Robertson, though this remains debated.
Injury Blows
The team recently lost forward Eric Robinson for an “extended period” with an upper-body injury after a hit by Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin. This adds to a list that includes Kochetkov (hip, likely season-ending) and defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere (day-to-day).
Hurricanes Schedule Jan 25 – Feb 1
DateOpponentTime (EST)LocationNotesThu, Jan 29Utah Mammoth7:00 PMHome (Lenovo Center)Whalers NightSat, Jan 31Washington Capitals5:00 PMAway (Capital One Arena)Rivalry GameSun, Feb 1Los Angeles Kings3:00 PMHome (Lenovo Center)Matinee Game
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