Every NHL season brings changes in player performance, with some athletes exceeding expectations and others facing challenges. As the Carolina Hurricanes prepare for the 2025-26 season, several players are positioned to potentially make significant progress.
Goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov, now 26 years old, advanced from starting the 2023-24 season in the American Hockey League to becoming a full-time NHL player last year. He recorded 27 wins, tying for 14th among all NHL goalies, matching Igor Shesterkin. Kochetkov’s high-danger save percentage ranked in the 92nd percentile among league goaltenders. However, his mid-range save percentage was .887, an area he will aim to improve this coming season.
Forward Jesperi Kotkaniemi reflected on his own development during end-of-season interviews: “I hope so. [I] feel I got drafted as a big skill guy, so you know I haven’t got there yet. But hopefully, that’s coming.” Since joining Carolina from Montreal via offer sheet in 2021, Kotkaniemi has shown potential but has not consistently reached it. With skilled wingers such as Jackson Blake, Nikolaj Ehlers, Taylor Hall, Seth Jarvis, Logan Stankoven, and Andrei Svechnikov available as linemates this year—and with his $4.82 million average annual value fitting under a growing salary cap—Kotkaniemi may be well positioned for a strong season.
On defense, Jaccob Slavin remains a key figure on the Hurricanes’ blue line with an average of 18:27 played at even strength per night last season. Several candidates could play alongside him this year. New addition K’Andre Miller joins the organization and may have an opportunity to develop further offensively next to Slavin. Sean Walker improved over his first season with Carolina and could see more responsibility. Shayne Gostisbehere is recognized for his offensive skills but will need to adjust if playing on his off-hand side. Alexander Nikishin could benefit from steady minutes while acclimating to the team’s system alongside Slavin’s reliable defense. Jalen Chatfield also emerges as a possibility due to his strong relationship with Slavin and increasing trust from coach Tim Gleason.
The upcoming season presents opportunities for these players and others within the Hurricanes roster as they look to build on previous performances.
