Frederik Andersen’s Struggles Becoming a Growing Issue for Hurricanes
RALEIGH, N.C. — The Carolina Hurricanes are facing mounting questions in net as veteran goaltender Frederik Andersen’s recent slump continues to cast a shadow over the team’s playoff push. After another subpar effort in Minnesota on Wednesday night, Andersen has now dropped five of his last six starts, raising concerns among fans and analysts about the stability of the Hurricanes’ crease.
The 34-year-old netminder, who was expected to provide veteran consistency, has struggled with rebound control and positioning in recent outings. Against the Wild, Andersen allowed several soft goals that shifted momentum away from Carolina, underscoring a troubling trend that has emerged over the past two weeks.
Growing Concerns
- Five losses in six starts: Andersen’s skid has coincided with a dip in team confidence, as defensive lapses have been magnified by shaky goaltending.
- Calls for change: Local media and fans are beginning to question whether the Hurricanes should explore trade options or lean more heavily on backup Pyotr Kochetkov.
- Playoff implications: With the Metropolitan Division race tightening, Carolina can ill afford uncertainty in net.
Team Response
Head coach Rod Brind’Amour has publicly backed Andersen, emphasizing the need for the team to play better defensively in front of him. However, the Hurricanes’ front office is reportedly monitoring the goalie market ahead of the trade deadline, leaving open the possibility of reinforcements if Andersen’s struggles persist.
What’s Next
Carolina returns home for a critical stretch of divisional games, where Andersen will likely get another chance to prove he can rebound. Whether he regains form or the Hurricanes pivot to alternatives could define the team’s trajectory as the postseason approaches.
