Carolina Hurricanes Replace Goalie Andersen with Kochetkov in Eastern Conference Final

The Carolina Hurricanes have made a significant change in goal for Game 3 of the NHL Eastern Conference Final, replacing veteran Frederik Andersen with Pyotr Kochetkov after allowing nine goals over the first two games against the Florida Panthers. Andersen, who struggled with a .750 save percentage and was pulled during Game 2 after conceding four goals on 16 shots, had shown solid postseason form prior to this series but has seen his confidence shaken. Coach Rod Brind’Amour emphasized that the goals allowed were due to great plays by the Panthers rather than solely Andersen's performance, but sought a change to shift the team's momentum. Kochetkov, who has a 1-1 record and a .891 save percentage this postseason, will start in net hoping to provide a needed boost for the Hurricanes, who face a 2-0 series deficit and a 14-game losing streak in the Eastern Conference Final dating back to 2006. Despite Kochetkov's promising stats, the Hurricanes will require more than a goaltending change to overcome the Panthers and advance. The Panthers, meanwhile, arrive at their home arena with strong momentum, looking to extend their lead in the series.