Brandon Bussi’s Breakout: How an Unexpected Goalie Has Become the Hurricanes’ Backbone
When the Carolina Hurricanes opened the 2025-26 season, the plan in net seemed clear: Pyotr Kochetkov and Frederik Andersen were expected to carry the load. Andersen had just re-signed during the playoffs, and Kochetkov was viewed as the young netminder ready to take the next step. But as we’ve seen time and time again in the NHL, plans in the crease rarely go untouched.
Injuries to Kochetkov - twice now - and Andersen’s rollercoaster start opened the door for someone else to step in. That someone has been Brandon Bussi, and the 27-year-old from Sound Beach, New York, has not just stepped in - he’s stolen the spotlight.
From the AHL to the NHL: Bussi’s Unlikely Path
Bussi’s journey to Raleigh wasn’t exactly a straight line. After spending three seasons with the Providence Bruins in the AHL without cracking Boston’s NHL roster, he hit free agency and landed a spot in the Florida Panthers’ training camp. He was on his way to join the Charlotte Checkers, the Panthers’ AHL affiliate, when everything changed.
Now, with eight NHL starts under his belt - not for Florida, but for Carolina - Bussi is making the most of his first real NHL opportunity. He’s posted a 7-1-0 record with a 2.11 goals-against average and a .907 save percentage. He notched his first NHL assist against the Islanders on October 30 and followed it up with his first career shutout on November 30 against Calgary.
Those aren’t just solid numbers for a goalie getting his feet wet - they’re the kind of stats that win games and earn trust in the locker room.
A November to Remember
Bussi was perfect in November, going 4-0-0 and riding a five-game winning streak into December. His 1.98 GAA over that span shows he’s not just winning - he’s keeping the puck out of the net with consistency. That followed a strong October where he went 3-1-0 in his first four starts.
In a season where Carolina has needed someone to steady the ship in net, Bussi hasn’t just held serve - he’s been the difference-maker. With Andersen sitting at 5-6-2 in 13 starts and Kochetkov sidelined, Bussi has helped the Hurricanes bank 14 critical points. He’s not just filling in - he’s giving them a chance to win every night he’s in the crease.
Earning the Coach’s Trust
Head coach Rod Brind’Amour doesn’t hand out praise lightly, especially when it comes to goaltending. But after Bussi’s shutout against Calgary, Brind’Amour made it clear just how valuable the newcomer has been.
“He’s been great for us,” Brind’Amour said. “He’s come up with the timely saves. That’s how I sum it up.”
That’s really the key. Bussi hasn’t been facing 40-shot barrages or standing on his head every night.
But when the Hurricanes have needed a big stop - a breakaway save, a momentum-halting glove flash - he’s delivered. And in close games, that’s often the difference between walking away with two points or none.
What Happens When the Crease Gets Crowded?
The big question now: What happens when Kochetkov returns?
Kochetkov was off to a stellar start himself - 4-0-0 with a 1.70 GAA and a .926 SV% - before his latest injury. Andersen, despite his struggles, is a veteran Brind’Amour trusts.
Managing three capable goalies isn’t easy, especially when all three want (and deserve) playing time. But it’s a good problem to have - one most NHL teams would love to deal with.
The Hurricanes will have to juggle ice time, keep all three sharp, and ride the hot hand when needed. If Bussi keeps playing like this, though, it’ll be hard to take the net away from him.
Eyes on the Future
Bussi is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, and he’s making a strong case for an extension. He’s not just surviving in his NHL debut - he’s thriving. And for a team with Stanley Cup aspirations, having a goalie who can step in and steal games is more than a luxury - it’s a necessity.
Eric Tulsky and the Hurricanes’ front office will have to make a decision at some point, and if Bussi keeps this up, that conversation could come sooner rather than later.
For now, Carolina will ride the wave. And with Bussi between the pipes, it’s a wave worth riding.