The Carolina Hurricanes will be making a change in goal for Game 3 against the New York Rangers, with Pyotr Kochetkov set to start in place of Frederik Andersen. The Hurricanes are trailing the second-round series 2-0, prompting Coach Rod Brind’Amour to make the switch in net.
Brind’Amour made the announcement about Kochetkov starting roughly seven hours before the game, explaining that Andersen’s workload was a significant factor in the decision. Although Andersen has played well, the coach believes giving him some rest is the best course of action.
Kochetkov, a 24-year-old rookie with NHL experience, has not played since April. Brind’Amour expressed confidence in the young goaltender’s abilities and fresh perspective heading into Game 3.
In addition to the change in goal, Evgeny Kuznetsov will also return to the lineup after being scratched for Game 2. Carolina will look to these lineup adjustments to spark a turnaround against the Rangers in Game 3.