Andersen rewards Hurricanes to start Eastern 1st Round, looks to 'do it again' in Game 2

Veteran goalie gets nod over Bussi due to playoff experience, shuts out Senators in series opener

Apr. 19, 2026 at 8:39pm

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Frederik Andersen, the veteran goaltender for the Carolina Hurricanes, was given the start in the team's Eastern Conference First Round series against the Ottawa Senators. Despite being pushed into the background earlier in the season by the emergence of Brandon Bussi, Andersen proved his worth with a 22-save shutout in Game 1, helping the Hurricanes take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-7 series. Andersen's playoff experience, which includes 85 career postseason games, was a key factor in coach Rod Brind'Amour's decision to start him over the younger Bussi.

Why it matters

Andersen's performance in Game 1 was crucial for the Hurricanes, who are looking to make a deep playoff run after falling short in the conference finals last season. The veteran goaltender's ability to make timely saves and provide steady goaltending could be the difference-maker for Carolina as they seek to advance in the postseason.

The details

Andersen made 22 saves in the Hurricanes' 2-0 victory over the Senators in Game 1. He was particularly impressive on the penalty kill, making five saves during a crucial power play in the third period to preserve the lead. Andersen's calm and composed demeanor in net helped the Hurricanes maintain their composure throughout the game, and his ability to break out the puck and handle it effectively was also a valuable asset.

  • The Hurricanes and Senators will face off in Game 2 on Monday, April 22, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. ET.
  • Andersen made 22 saves in the Hurricanes' 2-0 victory over the Senators in Game 1 on Saturday, April 20, 2026.

The players

Frederik Andersen

The 36-year-old veteran goaltender for the Carolina Hurricanes, who has played in 85 career Stanley Cup Playoff games with the Hurricanes, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Anaheim Ducks.

Rod Brind'Amour

The head coach of the Carolina Hurricanes, who made the decision to start Andersen in Game 1 over the younger Brandon Bussi.

Taylor Hall

A forward for the Carolina Hurricanes, who witnessed Andersen's strong playoff performance last season and believes the veteran goaltender will be there when the lights are brightest.

Jordan Staal

The captain of the Carolina Hurricanes, who has been with Andersen through the highs and lows and praised the goaltender's performance in Game 1.

Brandon Bussi

The young goaltender who emerged as the Hurricanes' No. 1 goalie during the regular season, but was passed over for the playoff opener in favor of the more experienced Andersen.

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What they’re saying

“Of course, you are looking for goalies to make saves at the right time. That's what he did tonight. How do you explain it? That was exactly the game right there and he was up to the challenge.”

— Rod Brind'Amour, Head Coach, Carolina Hurricanes

“I think he is a guy from what I saw last year, that when the lights are brightest, he's going to be there standing tall.”

— Taylor Hall, Forward, Carolina Hurricanes

“He bailed me out a couple of times (on the power play) because I was kind of swimming. Throughout the game, he was just steady, eating pucks when he had to and even breaking out pucks. Doing all the things to help our team win.”

— Jordan Staal, Captain, Carolina Hurricanes

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.