Full Breakdown
Carolina Hurricanes Conclude Preseason with Overtime Loss to Nashville Predators
10/5/2025, 5:55:48 PM
Final Game Overview
The Carolina Hurricanes faced the Nashville Predators in their final preseason game on October 7, 2025, at Bridgestone Arena, resulting in a 3-2 overtime loss. The game featured a mix of regular players for the Hurricanes, including Jordan Staal and Jordan Martinook, while notable absences included Jaccob Slavin and K’Andre Miller due to injuries.
Game Summary
The Hurricanes opened the scoring midway through the first period when Jordan Martinook converted a pass from Jordan Staal. However, the Predators quickly responded with a power-play goal from Jonathan Marchessault, followed by Tyson Jost, a former Hurricane, scoring to give Nashville a 2-1 lead in the second period. The Hurricanes equalized late in the third period when Seth Jarvis capitalized on a turnover, sending the game into overtime.
In the extra frame, Joakim Kemell scored the game-winning goal for the Predators on a power play after a penalty was called on Sebastian Aho, resulting from a hit on Andrei Svechnikov. This marked the end of the Hurricanes' preseason with a record of 1-4-1.
Key Performances
Pyotr Kochetkov made his preseason debut as the Hurricanes' goalie, recording 26 saves on 29 shots. His performance was noted for its engagement, despite the loss. On the Predators' side, Kemell's impactful play in overtime, including a significant hit that led to the power play, was highlighted by both his teammates and coaching staff.
Official Statements & Responses
Predators' head coach Andrew Brunette remarked on the importance of the game, stating, “It was a fast team that was going to test us in a bunch of different areas, and I thought we handled the test.” He acknowledged the need for improvement but expressed satisfaction with the team's performance against a strong opponent.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the loss, Hurricanes' coach Rod Brind'Amour pointed out the need for improvement in special teams, noting, “Our special teams have not been special this preseason and they will need a huge improvement to start the regular season.” This sentiment reflects concerns about the team's readiness as they approach the official start of the NHL season.
What's Next
The Hurricanes will begin their regular season on October 9, 2025, against the New Jersey Devils, while the Predators will host the Columbus Blue Jackets on the same day. Both teams will aim to build on their preseason experiences as they transition into the competitive regular season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was a heck of an overtime. I don't know how many seconds he played, but they were pretty impactful,” — Andrew Brunette, Predators Head Coach
- “ The bad news is that Carolina’s special teams have not been special this preseason and they will need a huge improvement to start the regular season.” — Rod Brind'Amour, Hurricanes Head Coach
- “Good hit. Good goal. I like to shoot, so I hit the net and I can score sometimes.” — Joakim Kemell, Predators Forward
- “It's hard to put a whole lot of stock in exhibition games, but that was an NHL team that we played and a good one,” — Andrew Brunette, Predators Head Coach
This final preseason matchup showcased the competitive spirit of both teams as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming NHL season.
