The Carolina Hurricanes have a problem, but it’s the kind of problem the other 31 General Managers lose sleep wishing they had. With the waiver wire acquisition of Brandon Bussi turning into the steal of the 2025 season, the crease in Raleigh is suddenly overcrowded.
Bussi, the 27-year-old netminder claimed from Florida back in October, hasn’t just been good—he’s been elite. Posting an 11-1 record with a 2.05 GAA and a .911 save percentage is the kind of stat line that forces front offices to make difficult decisions. And according to Adam Proteau of The Hockey News, that decision might involve moving veteran Frederik Andersen.
The “Luxury” Problem: Why a Trade Makes Sense Now
Here is the reality of the salary cap era: you cannot carry three NHL-caliber goaltenders indefinitely. It is a waste of a roster spot and, more importantly, a waste of asset value.
In my opinion, keeping Pyotr Kochetkov is a non-negotiable; he is the franchise pillar. That leaves a battle between the surging Bussi and the veteran Andersen. Andersen is a proven commodity, but his availability is his greatest ability—or lack thereof. Having played only 38 games over the previous two seasons due to injuries, relying on him is a gamble.
However, that doesn’t mean Andersen lacks value. Quite the opposite. There are currently three or four contenders with “Stanley Cup aspirations” but “Lottery Pick goaltending.” A healthy Andersen, even as a 1B option, is an immediate upgrade for them.
If I’m the Hurricanes, I look at Bussi’s waiver claim as found money. It allows the team to trade from a position of strength. Moving Andersen now, while he is healthy and the market is starved for saves, could bring back a middle-six forward or draft capital that Carolina can use at the NHL trade deadline. The Hurricanes don’t need three goalies; they need to maximize the two capable ones they have and cash out on the third.
Carolina Hurricanes News, Fantasy Pools, and NHL TV Schedule
Looking for more than just Hurricanes rumors? We have you covered. Head over to our homepage to find the latest Carolina Hurricanes news, including roster updates and line combinations. While you are there, don’t miss your chance to join our Fantasy Hockey Pool for cash prizes—it’s not too late to draft a winning team! Wondering how to watch the Hurricanes game on TV today? Check out our daily viewing guide on the website. Make sure to add nhltraderumor.com to your bookmarks for breaking news and sign up for our newsletter below to never miss a trade scoop.
The post Brandon Bussi’s Breakout Season: Is Frederik Andersen Done in Carolina? appeared first on NHL Trade Rumors.
