Hurricanes Goalie Change: Kochetkov to Start in Game 3 against Rangers

The Carolina Hurricanes have announced that Pyotr Kochetkov will be starting in goal for Game 3 against the New York Rangers. This comes after Frederik Andersen allowed eight goals on 62 shots in the first two games of the series, prompting Coach Rod Brind’Amour to make a switch in net.

Brind’Amour made the announcement about Kochetkov starting roughly seven hours before the game, citing Andersen’s workload as a significant factor in his decision to rest him. While Andersen has played well so far, Brind’Amour believes giving him some rest is the best course of action.

Evgeny Kuznetsov, who was scratched for Game 2, will also return to the lineup for Carolina. The team is currently trailing 2-0 in the second-round series and is looking to these lineup adjustments to spark a turnaround against the Rangers in Game 3.

Kochetkov, a 24-year-old rookie with NHL experience, has not played since April. Brind’Amour expressed confidence in his abilities and fresh perspective heading into this crucial game for Carolina.