Has Hurricanes' Brandon Bussi's Performance Made Frederik Andersen Expendable?
The Carolina Hurricanes have been riding a wave of excitement this NHL season — and one name in particular has grabbed the spotlight: rookie goaltender Brandon Bussi. Since being claimed off waivers in early October, Bussi has taken the hockey world by storm with a historic start to his NHL career. But his breakout play has also sparked a major debate: has Bussi’s performance made veteran goaltender Frederik Andersen expendable?
Bussi has been nothing short of sensational. In his first dozen appearances, he has posted a save percentage north of .910 and maintained a goals-against average around 2.07 — remarkable numbers for any netminder, let alone a rookie establishing himself in the league. Bussi’s strong play has helped the Hurricanes win a string of games and placed him in rare company among NHL history-makers. ([ca.sports.yahoo.com](https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/hurricanes-brandon-bussis-performance-made-215558721.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Bussi’s Breakout and Early Success
Bussi’s remarkable ascent began when he joined the Hurricanes on waivers. He quickly became the first goalie in NHL history to win 10 of his first 11 appearances — a feat that singlehandedly put him on the NHL radar. The 24‑year‑old has shown poise, consistency, and an ability to steal games for Carolina, including multiple key wins in shootout situations and even a shutout performance. ([ca.sports.yahoo.com](https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/hurricanes-brandon-bussis-performance-made-215558721.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
The Andersen Factor
In contrast, Andersen — once one of the NHL’s most reliable goaltenders — has endured a rougher stretch. The veteran’s save percentage and goals‑against average this season haven’t matched the team’s expectations, and his availability has been plagued by health issues over recent campaigns. Since joining the Hurricanes in 2021, Andersen hasn’t logged more than 34 games in a season, and durability concerns have persisted. ([ca.sports.yahoo.com](https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/hurricanes-brandon-bussis-performance-made-215558721.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
While Andersen has had strong outings in the past — including playoff performances and veteran leadership moments — the current statistical gap between him and Bussi has rejuvenated conversations about his long-term role with the team. ([canespr.com](https://canespr.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/clips110625.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Goaltending Depth: Luxury or Liability?
Traditionally, NHL teams aim to carry two dependable goalies, reserving depth for attack and defense. In Carolina’s case, the trio of Bussi, Andersen, and fellow netminder Pyotr Kochetkov has left general manager and coaching staff weighing roster priorities. With Bussi and Kochetkov both showing effective play, Andersen’s roster spot could be more valuable as trade leverage or to address other needs. ([thehockeynews.com](https://thehockeynews.com/news/latest-news/has-hurricanes-brandon-bussi-s-performance-made-frederik-andersen-expendable?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
What’s Next for the Hurricanes?
The Hurricanes now face a pivotal choice: continue with a three‑goalie setup or convert it into a higher‑value roster configuration by moving one of their veteran pieces before the trade deadline. Andersen, despite his experience and past contributions, may be the most logical candidate — given his current form and Bussi’s ascent. However, trading a veteran presence isn’t without risks, especially if injuries strike again. ([thehockeynews.com](https://thehockeynews.com/news/latest-news/has-hurricanes-brandon-bussi-s-performance-made-frederik-andersen-expendable?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Regardless of the decision, one thing is clear: Brandon Bussi’s performance has reshaped Carolina’s goaltending landscape, forcing the Hurricanes to reconsider the balance between youth and experience in net.
What do you think — should the Hurricanes keep Andersen as a backup and mentor, or ride the wave with Bussi and Kochetkov as their future duo? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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