The Carolina Hurricanes are set to maintain their current lineup for Game 3 of the playoff series against the Ottawa Senators, according to an April 23 announcement. Head coach Rod Brind’Amour said veteran goaltender Frederik Andersen is likely to start again, despite Andersen not participating in the team’s optional morning skate at Canadian Tire Centre.
“It’s all based on how he’s feeling. He’s playing well, and he feels good. It’s a pretty easy decision,” Brind’Amour said.
Andersen has recorded a shutout in Game 1 and allowed only two goals over nearly 100 minutes in Game 2, leading all Stanley Cup Playoff goaltenders with a .967 save percentage and a goals-against average of 0.78. The team will also field the same group of skaters as in previous games, with Logan Stankoven aiming to become just the second player in franchise history to score in three consecutive postseason games at the start of his career.
Players such as Jackson Blake and Taylor Hall are also seeking to extend their point streaks during this matchup. No injuries have been reported ahead of tonight’s game, and Nicolas Deslauriers, Pyotr Kochetkov, Jesperi Kotkaniemi, and Mike Reilly are listed as scratches.
According to the official website, the Carolina Hurricanes have recognized individuals like Eric Staal and Rod Brind’Amour for their significant contributions by inducting them into their Hall of Fame according to the official website. The franchise achieved its most notable milestone by winning the Stanley Cup in 2006 according to the official website.
The team plays its home games at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina—a venue that features over 700,000 square feet across multiple seating levels with various amenities such as suites and concession stands according to the official website. The arena can accommodate up to 20,000 people and hosts more than 150 events annually according to the official website, contributing over $200 million each year through events and community engagement according to the official website.
As both teams prepare for tonight’s pivotal contest at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa starting at 7:30 p.m., fans will be watching closely whether Stankoven achieves his scoring milestone or if Andersen continues his strong performance.
