Flames vs Hurricanes: Staal’s Return Looms as Bussi Seeks Back-to-Back Glory

RALEIGH, N.C. – The hockey world turns its attention to the Lenovo Center this Sunday as the Carolina Hurricanes prepare to host the Calgary Flames in a highly anticipated NHL showdown. This Flames vs Hurricanes clash is charged with significant storylines, most notably the potential return of Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal and the promising back-to-back start for young goaltender Brandon Bussi.

Captain Staal: A Force on the Brink of Return

After a three-game absence due to illness, the stalwart captain, Jordan Staal, is teetering on the edge of a triumphant return. The 37-year-old was a full participant in Saturday’s practice, seamlessly slotting into his familiar role alongside Jordan Martinook. Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour expressed his optimism, stating pregame that he is “hopeful” Staal will be able to lace up for today’s critical Flames vs Hurricanes encounter. Staal’s presence brings invaluable leadership, defensive prowess, and face-off expertise, making his potential return a massive boost for the Hurricanes.

Bussi’s Bid for Back-to-Back Brilliance

All eyes will also be on the net as Brandon Bussi steps between the pipes for his second consecutive start, a first in his burgeoning NHL career. Bussi is riding high on the momentum of an impressive performance in Friday’s dominant 5-1 victory over Winnipeg. That win solidified his place in franchise history as the first goaltender to secure six wins in his first seven career starts with the club, boasting an enviable 6-1-0 record with an .899 SV% and a 2.43 GAA. The young netminder will be looking to build on this exceptional start and prove his consistency in the high-stakes environment of a Flames vs Hurricanes game.

Projected Carolina Hurricanes Lineup for the Flames vs Hurricanes Matchup

Here’s how the Carolina Hurricanes are expected to line up against the Calgary Flames, pending Staal’s official return:

Forwards:

• Svechnikov – Aho – Jarvis
• Ehlers – Stankoven – Blake
• Martinook – Staal – Carrier
• Hall – Jankowski – Robinson

Defense:

• Miller – Walker
• Gostisbehere – Chatfield
• Nikishin – Nystrom

Starting Goaltender:

• Brandon Bussi

Hurricanes Injury Report

The Hurricanes continue to battle through a challenging injury list, with several key players sidelined:

• Pyotr Kochetkov (Lower-Body Injury | No Timetable For Return)
• Jesperi Kotkaniemi (Ankle Injury | No Timetable For Return)
• Charles Alexis Legault (Hand Injury | Out 3-4 Months From Nov. 11)
• Jaccob Slavin (Lower-Body Injury | “Out For A While” as of Oct. 14)
• Scratch: Mike Reilly

These absences underscore the importance of depth and the performances of players like Bussi, especially when facing a formidable opponent like the Calgary Flames.

Power Play Formations

Special teams will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the outcome of the Flames vs Hurricanes game. Here are the projected power play units for Carolina:

• PP1: Aho, Ehlers, Jarvis, and Svechnikov with Gostisbehere
• PP2: Blake, Hall, and Stankoven with Miller/Nikishin and Walker

Tune In to the Flames vs Hurricanes Action!

Don’t miss a moment of the thrilling Flames vs Hurricanes battle! The puck drops at 5:00 p.m. ET at the Lenovo Center. Fans can catch all the live action on FDSN_Hurricanes or tune into 99.9 The Fan for radio coverage. For more insights into the NHL season and team news, visit the Official NHL Website, the Carolina Hurricanes Official Site, or the Calgary Flames Official Site.

This Sunday promises to be an electrifying hockey spectacle, with high stakes and compelling narratives unfolding on the ice. Be sure to watch as the Hurricanes aim to defend home ice against the Flames!