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Philadelphia Today
By the People, for the People
Hurricanes Rest Top Players Ahead of Playoffs
Carolina sits six key starters against Flyers with division title already clinched
Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:14am
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Carolina's strategic rest of top players ahead of playoffs could impact Eastern Conference racePhiladelphia TodayThe Carolina Hurricanes rested six of their top players, including three of their leading scorers, for Monday's game against the Philadelphia Flyers. The Hurricanes have already clinched the Metropolitan Division title and are preparing for the upcoming NHL playoffs.
Why it matters
The Hurricanes are taking a cautious approach by sitting their star players to avoid potential injuries ahead of the postseason, even though they still need one more point to lock up the top seed in the Eastern Conference. This move could impact the Flyers' playoff hopes, as a Philadelphia win would eliminate the Washington Capitals and Columbus Blue Jackets from contention.
The details
Carolina held out forwards Sebastian Aho, Andrei Svechnikov and Seth Jarvis, who are among the team's top four scorers. The Hurricanes also sat captain Jordan Staal and defensemen Jaccob Slavin and Shayne Gostisbehere. Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour said this would likely be the 'toughest game of the year' for his team, with Brind'Amour's son Skyler among the reserves dressed for the game.
- The Hurricanes have already clinched the Metropolitan Division title.
- Carolina needs one more point to secure the top seed in the Eastern Conference.
The players
Sebastian Aho
A top-four scorer for the Hurricanes with 27 goals and 53 assists this season.
Andrei Svechnikov
One of Carolina's leading scorers with 31 goals and 39 assists.
Seth Jarvis
A 32-goal, 34-assist scorer for the Hurricanes this season.
Jordan Staal
The captain of the Hurricanes.
Jaccob Slavin
A premier defenseman for the Hurricanes.
Shayne Gostisbehere
A defenseman who previously played for the Flyers.
What they’re saying
“'You're gonna get probably the toughest game of the year.'”
— Rod Brind'Amour, Hurricanes Head Coach
What’s next
The Hurricanes will play their final regular season game on Tuesday against the New York Islanders. A win or overtime loss would secure the top seed in the Eastern Conference for Carolina.
The takeaway
The Hurricanes are prioritizing rest and recovery for their top players ahead of the playoffs, even though it could impact the playoff hopes of other teams. This cautious approach shows Carolina's focus on making a deep postseason run after clinching their division title.
