South Raleigh News

The Carolina Hurricanes are set to face the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena on Thursday, January 2. The game marks the conclusion of their season series against the Panthers.

The Hurricanes currently hold a record of 22-13-2 and sit third in the Metropolitan Division with 46 points. Their last outing resulted in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets on December 31. Meanwhile, the Panthers lead the Atlantic Division with a record of 23-13-2 and secured a victory over the New York Rangers on December 30.

During their previous matchup this season, Carolina fell short against Florida, suffering losses in both encounters. The Hurricanes lost 6-3 at Lenovo Center after erasing a two-goal deficit but conceding three goals in the third period. In another game, Florida dominated with a decisive 6-0 win over Carolina.

Forward Martin Necas is approaching a milestone as he prepares for his 400th NHL game on Thursday. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 111 goals and 288 points.

In response to Tyson Jost's injury during Tuesday's game against Columbus, forward Juha Jaaska was recalled from Chicago (AHL). If required, Jaaska may make his NHL debut in this match.

Goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov is expected to start again after facing consecutive defeats for the first time this season. Alternatively, Dustin Tokarski remains an option between the pipes.

The Panthers recently bounced back from consecutive shutouts by defeating the New York Rangers. Matthew Tkachuk has been instrumental for Florida with notable performances throughout December. In net, Sergei Bobrovsky has primarily managed goaltending duties despite sub-.900 save percentages along with Spencer Knight.

On injuries within Carolina's roster: Forward Tyson Jost missed part of Tuesday’s game due to an injury; defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere is sidelined for weeks following an upper-body injury; Jack Drury will be absent for several weeks due to a broken hand; Frederik Andersen underwent knee surgery expectedly keeping him out until early next year; Jesper Fast was ruled out for this season earlier in August.

Following Thursday’s match-up against Florida, Carolina will return home ahead of Saturday’s clash versus Minnesota Wild at Lenovo Center.