Hurricanes Lose Staal as Capitals Visit Carolina

The Carolina Hurricanes will host the Washington Capitals at Lenovo Center without captain Jordan Staal, who is expected to miss one to two months because of a calf tear, while Pyotr Kochetkov starts in goal as Carolina seeks its sixth straight win.

According to NHL.com, Staal was injured before the team’s previous game and missed the win over Philadelphia. Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour initially described the injury as less severe before further evaluation revealed the calf tear.

"hopefully nothing serious" said Rod Brind’Amour, Head Coach.

NHL.com reported that further examination changed the outlook for Staal’s absence, with the captain now projected to miss significant time. The team plans to adjust its forward lines while he recovers.

"anywhere from a month to two months" said Rod Brind’Amour, Head Coach.

Mark Jankowski moved into a higher role between Jordan Martinook and Nikolaj Ehlers after Staal’s injury and scored in his fourth consecutive game. Jesperi Kotkaniemi was also moved to center the fourth line with Nicolas Deslauriers and Eric Robinson.

Brind’Amour said Carolina expects to recall a forward during Staal’s absence, and the replacement does not necessarily need to be a center because Kotkaniemi can fill that position.

Pyotr Kochetkov was placed in the starter’s crease during morning skate, according to NHL.com. He improved to 3-0-0 after making 18 saves in Carolina’s previous victory, ending a five-game rotation between him and Brandon Bussi.

The Capitals entered Raleigh for their final scheduled regular-season visit to the arena this season, according to Canes Country. The game also marked a notable return for Alexander Ovechkin, who was selected first overall by Washington at the 2004 draft held in Raleigh.

Canes Country reported that Carolina entered the matchup with a 5-1-1 record and a five-game winning streak, while Washington arrived at 3-2-0 after a loss to Seattle. The Capitals previously defeated the Hurricanes 5-2 earlier in the season.