Get the full scoop on the latest NHL Rumor Roundup as breakout goalie Brandon Bussi signs a massive extension with the Carolina Hurricanes. Discover how this waiver-wire steal became the future of the franchise.
The hockey world is usually focused on the big names during the Olympic break, but the Carolina Hurricanes just made a move that has everyone talking. In the latest NHL Rumor Roundup, the spotlight has shifted from international drama to Raleigh, where the Hurricanes have officially secured their crease for the next three years. It’s a story of a “diamond in the rough” Brandon Bussi who went from being a waiver-wire insurance policy to a record-breaking starter.
Brandon Bussi: Contract and Season Highlights
| Feature | Details / Statistics |
| Contract Length | 3 Years (Through 2028-29) |
| Total Value | $5.7 Million ($1.9M AAV) |
| 2025-26 Record | 23-3-1 (Tied for 3rd in NHL Wins) |
| Goals Against Average | 2.16 (2nd in NHL) |
| Save Percentage | .908 (with 2 Shutouts) |
| Draft Status | Undrafted Free Agent |
From the Waiver Wire to the Record Books
The journey of Brandon Bussi is the kind of underdog story that fans absolutely love. Back in October, the Florida Panthers placed him on waivers, and the Hurricanes snatched him up simply as insurance. At the time, nobody could have predicted he would be a centerpiece of an NHL Rumor Roundup regarding a multi-million dollar extension.
With Pyotr Kochetkov sidelined for the season and Frederik Andersen fa cing his own struggles, Bussi stepped into the spotlight and never looked back. Brandon Bussi On February 1, he recorded his 21st NHL win in just 25 games, breaking a long-standing league record. He surpassed legendary names like Andrew Hammond and Bill Durnan, proving that he isn’t just a “backup” but a bona fide winner in the making.
The Stability Carolina Desperately Needed
For a long time, the biggest question mark in any NHL Rumor Roundup involving Carolina was their goaltending. Injuries have been a recurring theme for the Hurricanes, often derailing deep playoff runs. By signing Bussi to a three-year, $5.7 million deal, Brandon Bussi GM Eric Tulsky has finally provided the roster with long-term stability at a very team-friendly price.
Bussi himself noted that the stability was a “big thing” for him. At 27 years old, the New York native has found a home where he is viewed as a primary option. With Kochetkov expected to return next season, the Hurricanes suddenly have one of the most promising and affordable young tandems in the entire league.
Why This Deal is a Massive Steal
If you look at the current market in any NHL Rumor Roundup, quality goaltending is expensive. Several analysts believe Bussi could have commanded nearly double his $1.9 million AAV if he had tested the unrestricted free agent market this summer. Brandon Bussi By locking him in now, the Hurricanes have saved millions in cap space that can be used to bolster their defense or scoring depth.
His stats speak for themselves. Ranking second in the league in Goals Against Average (GAA) at 2.16 and sitting near the top of the wins category, Bussi is performing like a Vezina candidate. For Carolina, getting that level of production for less than $2 million per year is an absolute masterstroke of management.
The Impact on the Metro Division Race
As the NHL prepares to resume after the Olympic break, the Hurricanes hold a sizeable lead in the Metropolitan Division. Much of that success can be traced back to Bussi’s steady hand in the crease. In our NHL Rumor Roundup analysis, opponents are now forced to game-plan for a goalie who doesn’t seem to have a “rookie wall.”
Whether it’s a tight overtime win against the Kings or a shutout against a high-powered Rangers offense, Bussi has shown he can handle the pressure of being “the guy.” With his future now secured, he can focus entirely on leading the Hurricanes on what fans hope will be a very long run this spring.
Conclusion
The NHL Rumor Roundup is rarely this positive for a waiver-wire pickup, but Brandon Bussi is a rare talent. By rewarding his record-breaking start with a three-year extension, the Carolina Hurricanes have solidified their identity as a defensive powerhouse. Bussi’s rise from undrafted prospect to NHL record-holder is complete, and the “Canes” look more dangerous than ever as they head into the final stretch of the 2026 season.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the details of Brandon Bussi’s new contract?
As mentioned in the latest NHL Rumor Roundup, Bussi signed a three-year deal worth $5.7 million, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $1.9 million through the 2028-29 season.
2. How did the Hurricanes originally acquire Bussi?
The Hurricanes claimed Bussi off waivers from the Florida Panthers on October 5, 2025, originally intended to be a depth option.
3. What NHL record did Brandon Bussi break this season?
He set the record for the most wins by a goaltender through their first 25 career games, reaching 21 wins and surpassing the previous record of 20.
4. Why did Carolina sign him now instead of waiting for summer?
The NHL Rumor Roundup indicates that Bussi would have been a highly sought-after UFA this summer. Signing him now ensures stability and likely saved the team a significant amount of money.
5. What is the status of Carolina’s other goalies?
Pyotr Kochetkov is currently out for the rest of the 2025-26 season following surgery, while Frederik Andersen remains on the roster as the veteran 1B option.
