The Carolina Hurricanes are gearing up for a crucial match against the Buffalo Sabres on November 23 at KeyBank Center. With a three-game point streak under their belt (3-0-2), the team is determined to extend their winning streak to six games. The game will be a challenging one, as the Hurricanes are expected to face a formidable opponent in the Sabres.
The Hurricanes' lineup is expected to remain largely unchanged from their previous game, which resulted in a 4-3 victory over the Winnipeg Jets. The only uncertainty lies in the defensive lineup, as the team now has seven healthy players to choose from. Alexander Nikishin, who was the odd man out in the previous game, is a potential candidate to be benched. However, his health and availability make him a viable option for coach Rod Brind'Amour, who may opt for a rotation among his blue-liners.
Brind'Amour has not yet confirmed the starting goaltender for the game. Pyotr Kochetkov was initially scheduled to start in Winnipeg, but he was replaced by Brandon Bussi after not feeling well during the morning skate. Bussi's impressive performance, with a record of 5-1 in his first NHL starts, has earned him a starting role. This means that either Frederik Andersen or Kochetkov will be between the pipes today.
Andersen's last appearance was on Wednesday in Minnesota, where the Hurricanes suffered a shootout loss. Kochetkov, on the other hand, had an outstanding performance on Monday in Boston, almost achieving his second shutout in four starts. His close call within 10 seconds of a shutout showcases his exceptional skills as a goaltender.
The projected lineup for tonight's game is as follows:
Forwards:
- Svechnikov - Aho - Jarvis
- Ehlers - Stankoven - Blake
- Carrier - Staal - Martinook
- Hall - Jankowski - Robinson
Defense:
- Gostisbehere - Walker
- Miller - Chatfield
- Nikishin/Reilly - Nystrom
Starting Goaltender: TBD
The Hurricanes are currently dealing with several injuries, including:
- Jesperi Kotkaniemi (Ankle Injury | No Return Date)
- Charles Alexis Legault (Hand Injury | Out 3-4 Months)
- Jaccob Slavin (Lower-Body Injury | Out for an Extended Period)
The team's scratches are yet to be determined.
Power Play Units:
- PP1: Aho, Ehlers, Jarvis, and Svechnikov with Gostisbehere
- PP2: Blake, Hall, and Stankoven with Miller and Walker
The Hurricanes are ready to take on the Sabres, aiming to maintain their winning momentum and secure another victory.
