Hurricanes' Kochetkov Matches Franchise Record With Eighth Straight Win
Goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov extended his unbeaten start to the season with an 8-0-0 record, matching the longest opening winning streak in Carolina Hurricanes history. He made 14 saves in a 2-1 victory over the Boston Bruins, helping end Boston’s eight-game point streak. The team credited both the penalty kill and Kochetkov’s clutch performance down the stretch.
Pyotr Kochetkov recorded his eighth consecutive win as the Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Boston Bruins 2-1 on October 28, 2026, at PNC Arena in Raleigh. The victory extended Kochetkov’s unbeaten start to 8-0-0, matching the franchise record for a goalie’s season-opening winning streak previously set by Frederik Andersen in 2021. He made 14 saves, including key stops during two late power plays, as Carolina’s penalty kill held firm in the final four minutes. The game’s lone goal came from Sebastian Aho at 10:19 of the third period, following a tip-in by William Carrier and a backhand finish under Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman, who stopped 28 shots. Boston had opened the scoring on a power-play goal by Pavel Zacha assisted by David Pastrnak and Charlie Lindholm in the first period. The loss ended Boston’s eight-game point streak (7-0-1), while Carolina improved to 10-2-2. Jaccob Slavin credited both the penalty kill unit and Kochetkov for the win, emphasizing team discipline. This performance marks a significant turnaround from last season, when Kochetkov played only nine games due to a hip injury; he has since returned with a strong start, now sharing the franchise record. Meanwhile, off-ice news dampened spirits: Taylor Hall, expected to return after five games out, was sidelined again after aggravating an undisclosed injury during morning skate, per head coach Rod Brind’Amour. The Hurricanes face Columbus on Thursday with a chance to extend Kochetkov’s streak to nine.
Kochetkov’s record-setting start could influence team dynamics and fan sentiment in Raleigh, reinforcing confidence in the goaltending depth that was previously uncertain after last season’s injury setbacks. His performance may also affect broader NHL narratives around player resilience and long-term health, especially for goalies recovering from significant injuries. The Hurricanes’ early success, anchored by a strong defensive structure and timely offense, could shift playoff expectations and impact trade speculation in the league. Comparable to how Carey Price’s 2015–16 season elevated the Montreal Canadiens’ identity, Kochetkov’s streak may become a defining moment for Carolina’s current rebuild. However, the long-term sustainability of such a run remains uncertain—especially with increased scrutiny and potential fatigue. The team’s ability to maintain this level of performance without key players like Hall will be critical. What’s next could include deeper scrutiny of the Hurrican