The latest NHL Rumor Roundup breaks down the Carolina Hurricanes’ bold $5.7 million decision to lock in Brandon Bussi. See why this undrafted underdog is the key to their Stanley Cup dreams in 2026.
Before the NHL hit the pause button for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, the Carolina Hurricanes were the hottest team in hockey. While coaching and depth played a role, the biggest story in the latest NHL Rumor Roundup is the emergence of Brandon Bussi. The Hurricanes’ front office didn’t wait for the summer to make a move; they just committed long-term to the goalie who has turned the Metropolitan Division upside down.
Brandon Bussi: The Hurricanes’ New Foundation
| Feature | Detailed Specification |
| Contract Value | $5.7 Million Total |
| Annual Average (AAV) | $1.9 Million per season |
| Term | 3 Years (through 2028-29) |
| Current GAA | 2.16 (2nd in NHL) |
| League Rank | 3rd in Wins (23 Wins in 27 Starts) |
The Decision: Why Tulsky Acted Fast
In the world of the NHL Rumor Roundup, timing is everything. General Manager Eric Tulsky knew that Brandon Bussi was heading toward unrestricted free agency this offseason. With Bussi playing like a top-tier starter, his price tag was only going to go up. By signing him to a three-year, $5.7 million extension now, the Hurricanes have avoided a massive bidding war and secured a “steady presence in the crease.”
Tulsky’s strategy is clear: he wants cost-controlled talent that produces elite results. Bussi, an undrafted underdog who fought his way through the AHL, has proven to be a winner at every single level. This contract isn’t just a reward for a good few weeks; it’s a calculated bet that Bussi is the goalie to lead Carolina through their championship window.
From AHL Prospect to NHL Staple
One of the most inspiring parts of this NHL Rumor Roundup story is Bussi’s path to the big leagues. After spending time with the Providence Bruins in the AHL, many questioned if his game would translate to the NHL speed. Coach Rod Brind’Amour gave him the chance, starting him in 27 games, and Bussi responded by winning 23 of them.
His 2.16 goals-against average (GAA) is currently second in the league, placing him ahead of multimillion-dollar veterans. Bussi has mastered the art of “winning hockey,” providing the Hurricanes with a level of reliability they haven’t seen in years. His presence has allowed Brind’Amour to perfectly time player shifts and rotations, knowing that the man in the net is a brick wall.
Solving Carolina’s Long-Term Goaltending Woes
Goaltending has been the Achilles’ heel for Carolina in past playoff runs. Every NHL Rumor Roundup from previous seasons featured the Hurricanes looking for “that one piece” to stabilize the net. By committing to Bussi for the next three years at a modest $1.9 million per season, the Hurricanes have solved their biggest problem without breaking the bank.
This move also provides a safety net for the team’s other rotations. With Pyotr Kochetkov dealing with injury struggles, Bussi has stepped up as more than just a backup—he is now the undisputed “1A” option. Having an elite goalie on such a team-friendly contract gives the Hurricanes the financial flexibility to add more scoring power before the March 6 trade deadline.
Vezina Trophy Potential and Stanley Cup Hopes
As the Hurricanes sit atop the Metropolitan Division, the buzz in this NHL Rumor Roundup is shifting toward individual awards. If Bussi continues this pace after the Olympic break, he could very well be a finalist for the Vezina Trophy. His win rate is historic, and his ability to stay calm under pressure has transformed the Hurricanes’ defensive identity.
Coach Brind’Amour has praised Bussi for his work ethic and his “unfazed” attitude. For a team that plays a high-pressure, aggressive system, having a goalie who can stop high-danger chances is essential. This $5.7 million commitment is the catalyst for what fans hope will be a deep run into June for the Stanley Cup.
Conclusion
The NHL Rumor Roundup usually focuses on blockbuster trades, but sometimes the biggest move is the one you make to keep your own stars. By locking in Brandon Bussi, the Carolina Hurricanes have sent a clear message to the rest of the league: they are ready to win now. Bussi has gone from an undrafted free agent to the savior of the franchise, and with his future secured, the sky is the limit for the Hurricanes in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the terms of Brandon Bussi’s new contract?
As reported in the latest NHL Rumor Roundup, Bussi signed a three-year deal worth $5.7 million, which works out to $1.9 million per year.
2. Is Brandon Bussi still considered a rookie?
While he has had a breakout season, his 27 games played this year mean he has officially established himself as a full-time NHL starter.
3. Why did the Hurricanes sign Bussi during the Olympics?
The team wanted to prevent him from becoming an unrestricted free agent (UFA) in the summer, ensuring they didn’t lose him to a higher bidder in the NHL Rumor Roundup market.
4. Where does Bussi rank among NHL goalies this season?
Bussi is currently 2nd in the NHL in Goals Against Average (2.16) and 3rd in total wins, despite having played fewer games than many other starters.
5. Will Bussi be the starter for the playoffs?
Given his 23-3-1 record, Bussi is expected to be the primary starter for the Hurricanes when the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs begin.
