The Carolina Hurricanes are gearing up for a showdown against the St. Louis Blues, and it looks like Brandon Bussi will be the man in the crease.
Bussi, sporting an impressive 25-4-1 record in his first 30 starts, is aiming to bounce back after a tough loss in Calgary. He's no stranger to the Blues, having faced them just a few months back, and tonight he’ll be looking to start a new win streak.
The skaters in front of Bussi will remain unchanged from their recent triumph over Pittsburgh. Nikolaj Ehlers, who had a bit of a scare in that game, was back in full swing during the morning skate, much to the relief of Canes fans.
However, the team will be without Shayne Gostisbehere for the second game in a row due to a lower-body injury. Head Coach Rod Brind'Amour mentioned earlier in the week that Gostisbehere could miss a few games. Mike Reilly will continue to fill in on the blue line.
Here's how the lineup is shaping up for tonight:
Forwards:
- Svechnikov - Aho - Jarvis
- Hall - Stankoven - Blake
- Ehlers - Staal - Martinook
- Carrier - Jankowski - Robinson
Defense:
- Slavin - Chatfield
- Miller - Walker
- Reilly - Nikishin
Starting Goaltender:
- Bussi
Injury Report:
- Shayne Gostisbehere (Lower-Body): Out for a couple of games
- Pyotr Kochetkov (Hip Surgery): Likely out for the year
Scratches:
- Nicolas Deslauriers
- Jesperi Kotkaniemi
On the power play, the Canes have been mixing it up. The first unit features Aho, Ehlers (with Staal stepping in for faceoffs), Jarvis, and Svechnikov, anchored by Nikishin.
The second unit includes Blake, Hall, Jankowski, and Stankoven, with Miller on the point. Jordan Staal has been crucial in winning those initial faceoffs for PP1, staying on the ice if he secures possession, but swapping with Ehlers once the puck exits the zone.
As the Hurricanes hit the ice tonight, they'll be looking to build on their momentum and keep the wins coming. With a solid lineup and Bussi back in net, they’re poised for an exciting matchup against the Blues.