Goaltender Brandon Bussi is expected to make his 10th NHL start for the Carolina Hurricanes as they face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday in Raleigh. Bussi, who has won his last six games and holds an 8-1 career record, recently made 19 saves in a victory against the Nashville Predators.
The decision to start Bussi marks a change from the usual rotation among goalies Frederik Andersen and Pyotr Kochetkov. Kochetkov, now healthy, started Sunday’s game. However, Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour and staff appear to be favoring Bussi due to his current performance.
Rookie defenseman Joel Nystrom is likely returning to the lineup after missing his first game of the season on Sunday. Nystrom had played in 21 consecutive games since being recalled in late October. The team continues to wait for Jaccob Slavin’s return from a lower-body injury; Slavin has resumed practicing and is considered close to coming back.
On offense, Mark Jankowski practiced with Taylor Hall and Eric Robinson during morning skate, suggesting he will replace Jesperi Kotkaniemi for tonight’s match.
Tonight’s projected lineup includes Andrei Svechnikov, Sebastian Aho, Seth Jarvis on one line; Nikolaj Ehlers, Logan Stankoven, Blake; Jordan Martinook, Jordan Staal, Carrier; and Hall with Jankowski and Robinson rounding out the forwards. Defensive pairings are Miller-Walker, Gostisbehere-Chatfield, and Nikishin-Nystrom. Bussi is slated as starting goaltender.
Injury updates include Charles Alexis Legault (hand) and Jaccob Slavin (lower body), while Jesperi Kotkaniemi and Mike Reilly are listed as scratches.
The Hurricanes will play at home at 7:30 p.m., with coverage available on ESPN+.
