Amir Miftakhov’s sudden promotion from the AHL adds a bizarre layer to Carolina's crease drama as questions swirl regarding Frederik Andersen’s health ahead of a pivotal Game 5.
Per the NHL media site, the Carolina Hurricanes have recalled AHL netminder Amir Miftakhov from the Chicago Wolves before Game 5.
The move comes on the heels of Frederik Andersen's unexpected and suddenly extended absence, as the Hurricanes normal starting netminder has not taken the ice with the team since getting pulled in Game 3.
Brandon Bussi has taken over the starting role for Carolina, leading them to victory in Game 4 and they'll be hoping to get similar results with him in Game 5 as well.
Rod Brind'Amour has been adamant that Andersen is both healthy and available, but he hasn't even backed up Bussi, with Pytor Kochetkov taking over that role.
Andersen was reportedly available as the emergency backup goaltender for Game 4, and him not dressing was chalked up to just allowing him to have a full game off, but with the team now recalling an AHL netminder, mind you one that was expected to start for the Wolves on Friday as they are set to play Game 1 of the Calder Cup Final, it all comes across as very strange.
The Hurricanes are still saying Andersen is available as an EBUG option for Game 5, but the situation is definitely a weird one.
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