Pittsburgh Showdown: Hurricanes Aim for Fifth Straight Win with Andersen in Net
Frederik Andersen is set to lead the charge for the Carolina Hurricanes as they face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins, aiming for his fifth consecutive victory. Andersen has been a wall in net, boasting a 5-1 record since the Winter Olympics, and he's already taken down the Penguins twice this month at Lenovo Center.
The Hurricanes are sticking with the winning formula that’s brought them success in their last two games. They’ve been lighting up the scoreboard, netting six goals against Pittsburgh and four more in Toronto. It’s been a team effort, with contributions coming from all lines.
Defenseman K'Andre Miller has been clutch, scoring in back-to-back games-a feat he last accomplished in December 2023 with the New York Rangers. His timely goals have been pivotal in securing recent victories.
On the offensive front, Taylor Hall is on the cusp of a milestone, sitting just one goal shy of 300 career goals. Hall has historically thrived against the Penguins, racking up 31 points in 33 games. He’ll be looking to add to that impressive record today.
Projected Lineup for Tonight
Forwards:
- Svechnikov - Aho - Jarvis
- Hall - Stankoven - Blake
- Ehlers - Staal - Martinook
- Carrier - Jankowski - Robinson
Defense:
- Slavin - Chatfield
- Miller - Walker
- Reilly - Nikishin
Starting Goaltender:
- Andersen
Injury Report
- Shayne Gostisbehere (Lower-Body) is out for "a couple of games" as of March 10.
- Pyotr Kochetkov (Hip Surgery) is "likely out for the year" since December 29.
Scratches
- Nicolas Deslauriers
- Jesperi Kotkaniemi
Power Play Units
PP1: Aho, Ehlers (Staal), Jarvis, Svechnikov with Nikishin
PP2: Blake, Hall, Jankowski, Stankoven with Miller
Jordan Staal has been handling faceoffs for the first power play unit. If he wins, he stays on the ice; if the puck exits the zone, Nikolaj Ehlers takes his place.
The Hurricanes are riding high on momentum, and with Andersen in net, they’re looking to keep their winning streak alive. Fans should buckle up for what promises to be an exciting matchup against a familiar foe.