Brandon Bussi likely to start Game 5 for Hurricanes, coach Rod Brind’Amour kept the decision off the record. Bussi occupied the crease during the morning skate and was the first goalie off the ice Thursday, hinting at a second straight start. The Hurricanes face Vegas in a decisive match.

Bussi replaced Frederik Andersen in Game 3’s third period, stopping 18 of 19 shots in a 2‑5 double‑overtime loss to Vegas. The 27‑year‑old rookie had 18 saves in the 5‑3 win that tied the series. Andersen, who started 16 playoff games, now sits on the bench after declining performance during the final rounds of the series.

Brind’Amour said Andersen skated Thursday morning but was not ruled out for Game 5, keeping options open. He praised Bussi’s confidence, noting the rookie’s 31‑6‑2 record, .895 save percentage and 2.47 GAA over the regular season. Kochetkov remains the backup, having played in the morning skate at the team’s lineup for the decisive game tonight.

If Bussi starts, Hurricanes could force a Game 6 with a strong net presence, while Andersen’s slump suggests a limited role. The decision underscores the Hurricanes’ trust in their young goalie amid a tight series. A win would cap a dramatic run, etching Bussi’s name into franchise lore for the season's championship battle and victory.