Predicted Lineup for January 19 Matchup Against Buffalo
The Carolina Hurricanes are set to welcome back William Carrier for their upcoming match against the Buffalo Sabres on January 19. Carrier is making his return after a four-game absence due to a lower-body injury.
Key Player Updates
Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour has not yet revealed which player will be removed from the lineup to accommodate Carrier. The team’s defense will still be without Shayne Gostisbehere, who is sidelined with a lower-body injury. This marks his third consecutive game on the bench.
In a positive note, rookie Joel Nystrom, recently recalled from the Chicago Wolves of the AHL, is expected to be part of the active roster. Veteran Mike Reilly is likely to remain as a healthy scratch, sitting out once again.
Goalkeeping Situation
Brandon Bussi will be the starting goaltender for the game. The 27-year-old has impressed early in his NHL career, posting a record of 17 wins, 3 losses, and 1 overtime loss in his first 21 games. In his latest outing against the Florida Panthers, Bussi showcased his skills by stopping 15 out of 16 shots.
Projected Lineup Against Buffalo
Here is the expected lineup for the match against the Sabres:
Forwards
- Svechnikov – Aho – Jarvis
- Hall – Stankoven – Ehlers
- Staal – Martinook – Robinson
- Jankowski/Kotkaniemi – Carrier
Defensemen
- Slavin – Chatfield
- Miller – Walker
- Nikishin – Nystrom
Starting Goaltender
- Bussi
Injury Report
- Shayne Gostisbehere: Lower-body injury – Day-to-day
- Pyotr Kochetkov: Hip surgery – Likely out for the year
- Charles Alexis Legault: Hand injury – Out 3-4 months from November 11
- Noah Philp: Concussion protocol – No timetable for return
- Mike Reilly: Healthy scratch
Power Play Strategy
When executing power plays, Jordan Staal is taking faceoffs for the primary unit. If he wins, he remains on the ice; otherwise, he substitutes out for Nikolaj Ehlers.
As the Hurricanes prepare for this crucial matchup against the Buffalo Sabres, they will be looking to leverage their strengths while managing the ongoing challenges posed by injuries.
