The Carolina Hurricanes will start 25-year-old Pyotr Kochetkov in Goal for Game 5 against the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday night, as Frederik Andersen is ruled out due to an injury. Coach Rod Brind’Amour revealed that Andersen took a hit from forward Timo Meier in Sunday’s game and is now day-to-day.
Andersen had started four of the Hurricanes’ first-round playoff games with impressive numbers, including a 1.59 goals-against average and .936 save percentage. However, Kochetkov, who has been on loan from the San Jose Sharks, showed resilience during his previous start against New Jersey, allowing only one goal in six shots.
Kochetkov will make his first playoff start of the postseason after a brief stint with the Sharks. The 25-year-old has experience playing in big games, having started five consecutive wins before losing five of his last seven starts.
“We’ve done the two-goalie thing all year and we’re comfortable with either one of them,” said forward Jordan Martinook. Coach Brind’Amour expressed confidence in Kochetkov, stating that he’s always bounced back from layoffs without missing a beat.
The Hurricanes have traditionally used a rotation system between Andersen and Kochetkov, but Brind’Amour has favored the veteran in the postseason. However, it seems that Kochetkov will be given another chance to shine against the Devils on Tuesday night.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/44918482/hurricanes-roll-goaltender-pyotr-kochetkov-game-5