Goaltending discussions remain a staple of every offseason for the Carolina Hurricanes, even following their Stanley Cup triumph. Despite speculation linking the club to Winnipeg Jets netminder Connor Hellebuyck, maintaining the current tandem of Brandon Bussi and Pyotr Kochetkov presents a logical and cost-effective path forward.
Continuing with Bussi and Kochetkov
After the NHL Draft on June 26, general manager Eric Tulsky addressed the media during his end-of-season availability. Questions arose regarding Frederik Andersen’s future, with an official response delivered on July 1 when he inked a one-year, $2.8 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers.
Regarding their goaltending setup, Tulsky expressed comfort with relying on the Bussi-Kochetkov duo, adding that unless a significant development occurs, Cayden Primeau is expected to return as their third goaltender.
The 2026-27 season favors maintaining this tandem, particularly after Bussi’s instrumental role in securing Carolina’s Stanley Cup victory. In his inaugural season, Bussi posted a 31-6-2 record with a 2.47 goals-against average and .895 save percentage, including two shutouts. His playoff performance was equally impressive, compiling a 3-1 record with a 1.60 GAA and .931 save percentage over four games.
As he entered the 2025-26 season under a three-year, $5.7 million extension signed in February, Bussi continues his upward trajectory. He currently serves as the top option in the tandem alongside Kochetkov, who missed considerable time last season due to hip surgery.
Before his injury, Kochetkov demonstrated strong form, posting a 6-2 record across eight starts in nine appearances with a 2.33 GAA and .899 save percentage, including a shutout on November 4 against the New York Rangers in his season debut.
Entering the final year of his four-year, $8 million contract with a $2 million annual cap hit, the 27-year-old Russian goaltender faces a pivotal 2026-27 campaign. Despite earlier concerns about his durability following his 2025-26 injury, Kochetkov has consistently delivered in high-stakes moments, recording 50 wins over the preceding two seasons. His career GAA range spans from a best 2.33 in both 2023-24 and 2025-26 to a career-low 2.60 in 2024-25.
Combined, Bussi and Kochetkov are owed $3.9 million in 2026-27—substantially less than Hellebuyck’s $8.5 million annual cap hit. While Hellebuyck ranks among the league’s elite netminders, the 33-year-old’s seven-year extension extends through 2030-31. Additionally, reported asking prices exceed what the Hurricanes appear prepared to offer, especially with the Buffalo Sabres showing strong interest.
The Hurricanes have demonstrated the ability to leverage their core goaltenders effectively. Though based on a single season sample, Bussi’s 31-win campaign and Stanley Cup contributions underscore his reliability. Kochetkov’s 56 career wins in three full seasons further validate his capability. Their combined experience and performance make them worthy of continued trust.
A trade involving a goaltender remains possible before opening night, as the Hurricanes have historically pursued upgrades when circumstances align. However, the organization is confident in the tandem that propelled them to championship success. Their strategy hinges on the strength of the team in front—the Hurricanes excel at suppressing opposing offenses. Defending Stanley Cup champions need not make moves merely for the sake of change. Patience and confidence in their current goaltending duo remain prudent choices.
