Their starting goalie for the night will not be their #1 Frederik Andersen, even though he is perfectly healthy.
The Canes have surprised their fans by opting for Antti Raanta instead.
Raanta, 33 years old, has a record of 19-3-3 this season, with a goals against average of 2.23 and a save percentage of 0.910.
Andersen, 33 years old, has a record of 21-11-1 this season, with a goals against average of 2.48 and a save percentage of 0.903.
The Hurricanes could have also chosen the young Pyotr Kochetkov, but they ultimately went with Antti Raanta as their man of confidence for tonight's Game #1.
It is a bold but interesting decision, as they did not go with the goalie with the big contract.
This could be determining for Andersen's future in Carolina. More details will follow.
In any case, with this news, the virus circulating in Boston, the unexpected return of Tanner Jeannot in Tampa Bay, and everything else, it's been a busy day in the NHL!
POLL | ||
AVRIL 17 | 265 ANSWERS Last-minute surprise in front of the Hurricanes net a few hours before the first game of the 2023 playoffs Which one would you choose as the starting goalie? | ||
Andersen | 84 | 31.7 % |
Raanta | 116 | 43.8 % |
Kochetkov | 65 | 24.5 % |
List of polls |