Carolina Hurricanes’ Brett Pesce May Return to Lineup Against Florida Panthers

SUNRISE, FL. – The Carolina Hurricanes are hopeful to have all their skaters healthy and available as they face the Florida Panthers tonight at Amerant Bank Arena. Defenseman Brett Pesce, who has been sidelined with a lower-body injury since October 19, may make his long-awaited return to the lineup.

During the morning skate, Pesce worked alongside Brady Skjei and appeared ready to go. However, head coach Rod Brind’Amour emphasized that the final decision would be made closer to game time.

If Pesce receives medical clearance, Tony DeAngelo could be the player to make way for his return. DeAngelo started the day as the extra defenseman alongside Brendan Lemieux.

In the event that DeAngelo sits out, Dmitry Orlov is expected to take over the quarterbacking duties on the first power play unit. Brent Burns, who practiced with the second group at Invisalign Arena on Thursday, will remain in that role.

Tonight’s Projected Lineup…

Forwards

Jarvis – Aho – Necas

Svechnikov – Kotkaniemi – Teravainen

Martinook – Staal – Fast

Bunting – Drury – Noesen

Defense

Slavin – Burns

Skjei – Pesce/DeAngelo

Orlov – Chatfield

Goaltenders

Raanta

Kochetkov

Injuries

Frederik Andersen (Blood Clotting Issue)

Brett Pesce* (Lower-Body) – Game-Time Decision For Tonight

Healthy Scratches

Brendan Lemieux