In Game 3 against the New York Rangers, Pyotr Kochetkov will be the starting goalie for the Carolina Hurricanes as they seek a comeback in the second-round series. This decision was announced by Coach Rod Brind’Amour approximately seven hours before the game, with the reason being the workload of the previous goalie, Andersen.
Andersen had allowed eight goals on 62 shots in the first two games against the Rangers. Despite his performance, Brind’Amour felt it was important to give him a break due to the number of games he had played since returning from health issues in March. Kochetkov, a 24-year-old rookie with NHL experience, had not played since April 14, making him a fresh option for Game 3.
Brind’Amour expressed hope that Kochetkov will have a great game, emphasizing the importance of having a fresh player in goal. Additionally, Russian player Evgeny Kuznetsov will return to the lineup after being scratched in the Hurricanes’ Game 2 overtime loss in New York. With these lineup changes, the Hurricanes are looking to turn the series around and secure a win in Game 3.