As the Los Angeles Kings prepare to face the Carolina Hurricanes, anticipation builds around the expected performance of goaltender Brandon Bussi. This matchup on October 18 marks Bussi’s second start in the NHL, following a strong debut against the San Jose Sharks.
Brandon Bussi’s Impressive Debut
Bussi showcased his skills in his first game on October 15. He made a remarkable 16 saves on 17 shots. His key saves in the early stages played a vital role in securing a victory for the Hurricanes.
Carolina’s Lineup Insights
For this upcoming game, the Hurricanes have several players in excellent form. Notably, five players are enjoying a four-game point streak, setting a franchise record. The players include:
- Sebastian Aho
- Seth Jarvis
- Alexander Nikishin
- Shayne Gostisbehere
- Jackson Blake
Changes in the Forward Lines
Jesperi Kotkaniemi is set to return to the roster after missing the first two games of the road trip. To accommodate his return, Mark Jankowski will likely be sidelined.
Projected Lineup for October 18:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Forwards |
Ehlers – Aho – Jarvis Hall – Stankoven – Blake Martinook – Staal – Carrier Robinson – Kotkaniemi – Svechnikov |
| Defense |
Miller – Walker Nikishin – Gostisbehere Reilly – Chatfield |
| Goaltender | Bussi [Backup: Andersen] |
Injuries and Scratches
The Hurricanes are currently managing some injuries. Pyotr Kochetkov is out due to a lower-body injury and will not return until at least October 18. Jaccob Slavin is also sidelined with a lower-body injury, but no timetable has been set for his return. Additionally, Jankowski and Charles Alexis Legault are listed as scratches.
Power Play Units
The Hurricanes will deploy two distinct power play units:
- PP1: Aho, Blake, Ehlers, Jarvis with Gostisbehere
- PP2: Blake, Stankoven, Svechnikov with Miller and Walker
As the game approaches, all eyes will be on Bussi as he aims to replicate his debut success against the Kings.
