The Carolina Hurricanes are actively working to extend the contract of 27-year-old goaltender Brandon Bussi. Initially claimed off waivers from the Florida Panthers, Bussi has transformed into a key player for the Hurricanes this season.
Brandon Bussi’s Rise
Bussi began the season as the Hurricanes’ third-string goalie, lacking any NHL experience. After being signed by the Panthers to a two-way deal in the offseason, he was brought in as insurance due to an injury to Pyotr Kochetkov.
As the season progressed, Bussi seized the opportunity. He now stands as a likely starter for the playoffs should they begin today, having taken substantial playing time from Frederik Andersen.
Impressive Performance Statistics
Despite his numbers not being extraordinary, Bussi has proven successful within Carolina’s strong possession system. His key statistics include:
- Save Percentage: .904
- Goals Against Average: 2.20
- Record: 18-3-1 in 22 starts
- Goals Saved Above Expected: 7.4, ranking 18th in the league
- GSAx/60: 0.332, ranking 12th among goalies with at least 20 games played
Contract Negotiations Ahead
With Frederik Andersen facing unrestricted free agency and the likelihood of Kochetkov being sidelined for the remainder of the season, talks for Bussi’s contract extension have intensified. According to David Pagnotta from The Fourth Period, indications are positive regarding the extension.
“Everything that I’ve been told is that things are positive and it looks like it will get there,” said Pagnotta. A new deal is anticipated in the near future.
Potential Terms of the Contract
Brandon Bussi initially signed as an undrafted free agent out of Western Michigan in 2022. Throughout his career, he has been on entry-level or two-way contracts, all at league-minimum cap hits.
A shift to a one-way contract with a value of at least seven figures seems likely. However, whether Carolina will pursue a multi-year deal remains uncertain. Given the lack of young goalies pushing for NHL time, the team appears to view Bussi and Kochetkov as their future goaltending tandem.
The recent comparison to Alex Lyon, who earned a two-year, $1.8 million contract from the Red Wings, illustrates the evolving landscape for goalies. Although the market is more lucrative, it might be challenging for Bussi to secure over $2 million annually on a two-year agreement.
