Gostisbehere Returns to Hurricanes Lineup vs. Devils

Defenseman back after missing over 3 weeks with lower-body injury

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:51pm

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Defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere will return to the Carolina Hurricanes' lineup on Saturday when they host the New Jersey Devils. Gostisbehere has been sidelined for over three weeks due to a lower-body injury that has impacted much of his season. He is expected to play on the first power play unit, where his 0.96 points per game this season rank tied for seventh among all NHL defenders.

Why it matters

Gostisbehere's return is a boost for the Hurricanes' blue line and power play as they look to solidify their playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. His offensive production has been a key part of Carolina's success this season.

The details

Gostisbehere was back at practice on Friday, working alongside Alexander Nikishin at five-on-five. He is also expected to resume duties on the first power play unit. In net, Brandon Bussi will make his 34th start of the season after earning a win over New Jersey on Jan. 4.

  • Gostisbehere has been sidelined for over three weeks due to a lower-body injury.
  • Gostisbehere returned to practice on Friday.

The players

Shayne Gostisbehere

A defenseman for the Carolina Hurricanes who has missed over three weeks due to a lower-body injury. He is expected to return to the lineup and the first power play unit, where his offensive production has been a key part of the team's success this season.

Brandon Bussi

The Hurricanes' starting goaltender who will make his 34th start of the season. He earned a win over the New Jersey Devils on Jan. 4.

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The takeaway

Gostisbehere's return to the Hurricanes' lineup is a significant boost as the team looks to solidify its playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. His offensive production and power play contributions have been crucial to Carolina's success this season.