Predicted Lineup Revealed for Round 1, Game 1 Against Ottawa

The Carolina Hurricanes are primed for their opening matchup in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Ottawa Senators. With a clean bill of health, the team enters Game 1 confidently, fielding their strongest lineup of skaters. This marks a significant achievement, particularly after grappling with nearly 300 man-games lost to injuries throughout the regular season.

Carolina Hurricanes’ Regular Season Performance

This season, the Hurricanes achieved 53 wins, the second-highest total in the league, trailing only the Colorado Avalanche, who recorded 55 victories. The roster made history by featuring seven players who scored 20 goals each for the first time since the team’s relocation. Notably, Nikolaj Ehlers had a standout season, marking a career high in performance.

Goaltender Information

Frederik Andersen will be the starting goaltender for the game. This appearance will be his 86th in the playoffs, a testament to his experience. Coach Rod Brind’Amour opted to start Andersen, given his playoff record and ability to perform under pressure. Over his career, Andersen has participated in 32 playoff games with a .909 save percentage, ranking him among the top five goalies in terms of postseason performance in the last five years.

Projected Lineup for Game 1

Here are the forwards and defensemen expected to take the ice against Ottawa:

• Forwards:
  • Svechnikov – Aho – Jarvis
  • Hall – Stankoven – Ehlers
  • Staal – Martinook
  • Carrier – Jankowski – Robinson
• Defense:
  • Slavin – Chatfield
  • Miller – Walker
  • Gostisbehere – Nikishin

Special Teams Strategy

The Hurricanes will utilize two power play units. The first unit includes Aho, Ehlers, Jarvis, Svechnikov, and Gostisbehere. For the second unit, Blake, Hall, Jankowski, and Stankoven will be complemented by Nikishin.

Jordan Staal will handle faceoffs to kick off power plays. If successful, he will remain on the ice until the puck clears the zone. When that occurs, Ehlers will replace him in the first unit, while Mark Jankowski will enter for the second unit if needed.

Healthy Roster and Scratches

The team’s current roster faces no injuries, allowing for a fully healthy lineup. However, the following players will be scratched:

• Nicolas Deslauriers
• Pyotr Kochetkov
• Jesperi Kotkaniemi
• Mike Reilly

The Hurricanes are poised for their playoff journey, and the lineup for Game 1 showcases their depth and readiness to battle the Ottawa Senators.