October 14 Lineup Preview for San Jose Matchup
In an exciting matchup on October 14, the Carolina Hurricanes are set to take on the San Jose Sharks. This game marks a significant moment as goaltender Brandon Bussi makes his NHL debut. Bussi, 27, previously played 111 games in the American Hockey League (AHL) before being claimed by the Hurricanes on October 5.
Key Player Updates
Bussi’s debut comes at a crucial time due to the absence of Pyotr Kochetkov, who is sidelined with a lower-body injury until at least October 18. Carolina’s head coach, Rod Brind’Amour, confirmed the situation during a recent morning skate. While the injury isn’t serious, Kochetkov will not accompany the team on their six-game road trip.
Additionally, defenseman Mike Reilly is set to play his first game for the Hurricanes. The 32-year-old signed as a free agent on July 1 and is stepping into the lineup without star defender Jaccob Slavin, who is also dealing with a lower-body injury.
Lineup Changes
The lineup for the game will see some adjustments, particularly on the defensive pairings:
- Goaltenders: Bussi (starting) and Andersen (backup)
- Defense:
- Miller – Walker
- Nikishin – Gostisbehere
- Reilly – Chatfield
- Forwards:
- Ehlers – Aho – Jarvis
- Svechnikov – Stankoven – Martinook
- Staal – Carrier
- Robinson – Jankowski – Hall
Jesperi Kotkaniemi, who has been part of the roster, is expected to be a healthy scratch to make room for Jankowski’s debut, while Charles Alexis Legault, recalled from the Chicago Wolves, will serve as an extra defenseman.
Power Play Units
The Hurricanes will utilize two power play units as follows:
- Power Play Unit 1: Aho, Ehlers, Jarvis, Svechnikov, and Gostisbehere
- Power Play Unit 2: Blake, Hall, Stankoven, Miller, and Walker
This matchup promises to be an intriguing contest as both teams navigate changes in their rosters. Fans can anticipate a memorable night in San Jose as Bussi and Reilly make their significant contributions to the game.
