Canes’ Andersen Strikes Sudden Deal at 35—What This Means for Round 2 Showdown

Just a couple of days before the Carolina Hurricanes kick off their high-stakes second-round playoff series, they’ve nailed down a crucial piece of the puzzle — locking up veteran goalie Frederik Andersen for another season. At 35, Andersen isn’t just a steady pair of hands between the pipes; he’s a reliable workhorse whose winning percentage places him among the NHL’s elite. This one-year, $2.75 million deal, sprinkled with performance incentives, is a savvy move by GM Eric Tulsky, reinforcing a goaltending duo with Pyotr Kochetkov that comes in comfortably under $6 million. With the Canes fresh off a hard-fought victory over the Devils and poised to challenge the powerhouse Capitals, having Andersen back — especially as he’s expected to start Game 1 after his first-round injury — could make all the difference in pushing Carolina deeper into the postseason grind. The timing, the stakes, the player — it’s a story worth keeping your eyes on. LEARN MORE

RALEIGH, N.C. — The Carolina Hurricanes have signed goaltender Frederik Andersen to a one-year contract for next season, worth $2.75 million for the 35-year-old veteran.

General manager Eric Tulsky announced the deal Saturday, a little over 48 hours before his team starts the second round of the playoffs against the Washington Capitals.

Andersen could earn up to $750,000 in incentives for games played and his participation in a potential run to the Eastern Conference finals next season. He would get $250,000 for playing 35 or more games, another $250,000 for getting to 40 and $250,000 if the Hurricanes reach the East finals and he plays in at least half of the playoff games.

“Frederik has played extremely well for us and ranks in the top 10 all-time for winning percentage by an NHL goalie,” Tulsky said. “We’re excited that he will be staying with the team for next season.”

Andersen and the Hurricanes, the No. 2 seed in the Metropolitan Division, advanced past the New Jersey Devils in Round 1 last week. They will meet the Capitals, who won the division crown, for the right to make the NHL’s final four.

Extending Andersen could give the team a goaltending tandem with Pyotr Kochetkov for less than $6 million combined.

Anderson, a Denmark native who previously played for the Anaheim Ducks and Toronto Maple Leafs, has become coach Rod Brind’Amour’s most trusted option in net. He is expected to return to the starting role for Game 1 of the Capitals series after getting injured in the first round against New Jersey.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.