The Carolina Hurricanes are set to face the Florida Panthers in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final, with Pyotr Kochetkov starting as goaltender. Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour announced the decision after a morning skate, expressing his intention to “change the vibe” for the team. He emphasized that Frederik Andersen is not blamed for previous game results but showed confidence in Kochetkov, who has performed well throughout the year.
This game marks Kochetkov’s second start of the postseason and his first since Round 1 against the New Jersey Devils when Andersen was sidelined due to injury.
Defensively, Jalen Chatfield and Sean Walker are game-time decisions. Chatfield did not participate in morning practice, and Walker left after line rushes; however, Brind’Amour noted this was planned. With Walker absent from practice, Scott Morrow took part in power play unit drills.
Offensively, Seth Jarvis will play despite being injured in Game 2. Jesperi Kotkaniemi is also expected to return after being a healthy scratch previously. Jack Roslovic is likely to sit out to accommodate Kotkaniemi’s return.
Carolina’s projected lineup includes forwards Svechnikov, Aho, Jarvis; Hall, Kotkaniemi, Stankoven; Martinook, Staal, Carrier; Robinson, Jankowski, Blake; defensemen Slavin-Burns; Orlov-Walker*; Gostisbehere-Morrow*; with Kochetkov as goaltender and Andersen as backup.
Injury updates include Jalen Chatfield listed day-to-day with an undisclosed injury and Jesper Fast out for the season due to a neck injury. Scratches for tonight’s game include Juha Jaaska, Tyson Jost, Alexander Nikishin, Jack Roslovic, Ty Smith, and Riley Stillman.
The betting odds at publication time provided by Fanatics Sportsbook have the Canes at +120.
Game details: The match will take place in Sunrise at 8:00 p.m.
