### Hurricanes Face Goaltending Challenge as Frederik Andersen is Ruled Out for Game 5 The Carolina Hurricanes are set to face a significant challenge in their playoff series against the New Jersey Devils, as starting goaltender Frederik Andersen has been ruled out for Game 5 due to an undisclosed injury sustained during Game 4. This development opens the door for 25-year-old Pyotr Kochetkov to make his postseason debut as the starting goalie. Andersen was injured in a collision with Devils forward Timo Meier, which occurred in the second period of Game 4, where the Hurricanes managed to secure a 5-2 victory, taking a 3-1 series lead. Coach Rod Brind'Amour confirmed Andersen's absence after the morning skate on Tuesday, indicating that he is day-to-day [https://timesng.com/hurricanes-goalie-frederik, https://www.nhl.com/news/frederik-andersen-out-for-game-5-for-carolina-hurricanes]. ### Overview of the Situation and Implications for the Hurricanes 1. **Injury Details**: - Frederik Andersen was injured during Game 4 after a collision with Timo Meier, leading to his exit from the game [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/hurricanes_g_frederik_andersen_injured_in_game_4_vs_devils/s1_17050_42117305]. - The injury has been classified as undisclosed, and he is currently listed as day-to-day [https://www.nhl.com/news/frederik-andersen-out-for-game-5-for-carolina-hurricanes]. 2. **Kochetkov's Role**: - Pyotr Kochetkov will step in as the starting goaltender for Game 5, marking his first start of the postseason [https://www.reuters.com/sports/hurricanes-turn-g-pyotr-kochetkov-game-5-vs-devils-2025-04-29]. - Kochetkov has previously shown promise, having recorded a .933 save percentage in relief during Game 4 [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/hurricanes_turn_to_g_pyotr_kochetkov_for_game_5_vs_devils/s1_17050_42126113]. 3. **Team Dynamics**: - The Hurricanes are looking to clinch the series against the Devils, needing just one more win to advance to the second round of the playoffs [https://www.nhl.com/news/new-jersey-devils-carolina-hurricanes-game-5-preview-april-29]. - Andersen's absence could impact the team's performance, as he has been a key player with a .936 save percentage and a 1.59 goals-against average in the series [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/hurricanes_starting_goaltender_likely_out_for_game_5/s1_14825_42125084]. ### Key Statistics and Performance Metrics - **Frederik Andersen's Performance**: - Save Percentage: **.936** - Goals-Against Average: **1.59** - Wins in Series: **3 out of 4 games** [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/hurricanes_starting_goaltender_likely_out_for_game_5/s1_14825_42125084]. - **Pyotr Kochetkov's Regular Season Stats**: - Wins: **27** - Losses: **16** - Goals-Against Average: **2.60** - Save Percentage: **.898** [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/hurricanes_turn_to_g_pyotr_kochetkov_for_game_5_vs_devils/s1_17050_42126113]. ### Conclusion: Navigating the Playoff Challenge In summary, the Carolina Hurricanes are navigating a critical juncture in their playoff campaign with the absence of Frederik Andersen due to injury. The team will rely on Pyotr Kochetkov to step up in goal as they aim to secure their place in the next round of the playoffs. The stakes are high, and Kochetkov's performance will be pivotal in determining the outcome of Game 5 against the New Jersey Devils. 1. **Injury Impact**: Andersen's absence is a significant blow to the Hurricanes' playoff aspirations. 2. **Kochetkov's Opportunity**: This is a crucial moment for Kochetkov to prove himself in high-stakes playoff hockey. 3. **Team Strategy**: The Hurricanes must adapt quickly to ensure they capitalize on their current series lead and advance to the next round [https://www.reuters.com/sports/nhl/with-pyotr-kochetkov-net-hurricanes-hope-finish-off-devils-2025-04-29].