Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Frederik Andersen took part in a full team practice today and seems to be ready to go for the start of the second round series against the Washington Capitals.

"I feel good," Andersen said. "It's nice to be back out there with the guys and getting back at. Obviously a huge moment for us to close out the series. We're happy that we're moving on."

"It's what we thought," said Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour. "Practiced yesterday and said he felt good. Same today. I think that's a real positive."

Andersen missed Game 5 of the Canes' first round series against the New Jersey Devils after Devils forward Timo Meier collided with him in the second period of Game 4.

"He's obviously driving the net and put himself in a path that was pretty much right through the crease," Andersen said about Meier's collision. "In my opinion, I don't think Svech really did much to alter that path. Obviously he's supposed to go to the net, but I think he put himself in the crease. I was quite surprised to see that not result in anything."

The 35-year-old veteran netminder had to leave that game early and wasn't able to play in Game 5, but the Hurricanes were able to close out the series with a double-overtime, comeback win.

"You never want to leave a games, especially in the middle of a playoff series, but we were able to close out the win there," Andersen said. "Happy about that, but obviously it sucked not being able to be out there." 

But Andersen looks to be ready now, which is crucial for the Hurricanes who are getting ready for a tough series.

"It's crucial and we know that at this time of year especially," Brind'Amour said on goaltending. "It always comes down to getting those saves and certainly it's the nature of that position that everything always seems to fall on it. You have to get timely saves and a chance to stay in games when maybe we're not playing our best and that's what he's done for us, for sure."

Be sure to check out the Carolina Hurricanes 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs Hub for all postseason stories!  

Stay updated with the most interesting Carolina Hurricanes stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story.