Hurricanes Riding High, Eyeing More Firepower Ahead of Olympic Break
The Carolina Hurricanes are heading into February exactly where they want to be - at the top of the Metropolitan Division with 72 points and a firm grip on first place. Even after a narrow 4-3 overtime loss to the Capitals to close out January, the Canes are on a heater, stacking points and showing the kind of form that makes them a legitimate threat in the Eastern Conference.
This week marks a critical stretch before the NHL hits pause for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. And for Carolina, it’s not just about holding their spot - it’s about fine-tuning a roster that already looks playoff-ready but still has room for a little more bite.
Bussi Steps Up in the Crease
Let’s start with the biggest storyline in Raleigh right now: Brandon Bussi. The rookie goaltender has gone from a depth piece to a season-saver.
With Pyotr Kochetkov sidelined after hip surgery, the Hurricanes needed someone to step up. Bussi has done more than that - he’s taken the wheel.
He’s already hit the 20-win mark, and more importantly, he’s brought a calm, consistent presence to the crease. That’s no small feat for a young goalie thrust into a high-pressure role.
With Frederik Andersen providing veteran support, the Hurricanes suddenly have a goaltending tandem that looks playoff-caliber - even without their original starter. In a league where postseason success often hinges on the guy between the pipes, Bussi’s emergence couldn’t have come at a better time.
Eyes on a Second-Line Center
While the Hurricanes are rolling, they’re not standing pat. With the March 6 trade deadline creeping closer, Carolina is reportedly in the market for a top-tier second-line center - the kind of move that could elevate this roster from contender to Cup favorite.
Two names keep surfacing in the rumor mill: Elias Pettersson from Vancouver and Nazem Kadri from Calgary. Both would be major additions, bringing offensive punch and playoff experience to a top six that’s already dangerous.
Of course, adding a player of that caliber won’t come cheap. Jesperi Kotkaniemi’s name has popped up in trade speculation, largely due to his struggles locking down a consistent role in the top six. There’s also been chatter around top defensive prospect Alexander Nikishin, though moving him would be a surprise - the Hurricanes are high on his long-term upside.
Still, if Carolina is serious about making a deep run this spring, this could be the moment to swing big.
Countdown to the Olympic Break
After their Feb. 5 matchup against the New York Rangers, the Hurricanes will get a lengthy breather - not playing again until Feb. 26 when they face the Tampa Bay Lightning. That’s thanks to the league-wide pause for the Winter Olympics.
Several Hurricanes are expected to represent their countries in Milan, while the rest of the squad will use the nearly three-week break to rest, recover, and gear up for the final stretch of the regular season.
And make no mistake - how this team comes out of the break will be crucial. With the Metro race heating up and the playoffs looming, Carolina will need to be sharp from the jump.
Week Ahead: February 1-7
It’s a short but important week for the Canes. They’ll look to keep the momentum going and bank a few more points before the Olympic intermission. Every game matters, especially when you’re sitting at the top - and when the team behind you is just one hot streak away from closing the gap.
The Hurricanes are in a strong spot. They’ve got depth, they’ve got structure, and now, they might be one bold move away from having all the pieces in place. The next few weeks could define the rest of their season.